Is Jarred Minced Garlic Worth Using?

Question

We've followed many of your recipes for a long long time. We're still using minced garlic from a jar. Have you presented any information on pre-minced garlic? We've always assumed that its not as potent but is it worth the benefit? Can you convince us to switch? Do you have any suggestions on how to make mincing fresh garlic easier?

Lynn Clark · Accepted Answer

Hi Jason - We haven't specifically written about pre-minced garlic, but we definitely prefer fresh. Once garlic is cut the flavor compounds are released and will lose potency over time. Therefore, the pre-minced garlic is less flavorful. For quicker garlic mincing, we smash cloves with the side of a knife, then rock the knife back and forth to reduce any large pieces to a mince. We also like to simmer whole, smashed cloves or sliced garlic in oil and then discard the garlic. This leaves behind a mellow garlic oil in which to cook the remaining ingredients, a technique popular in Italy where garlic flavor is more subtle. Best, Lynn C.

Is Jarred Minced Garlic Worth Using?

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