Ingredients
Method
Method 1: Trim the Ends and Peel
- Start by cutting off the hard root end as well as the pointed tip. Once the ends are cut, the skin usually peels away pretty easily with your fingers.
Method 2: Smash and Peel
- Start by trimming the root end first. Place the garlic clove on your cutting board and lay the flat side of your knife over it. I usually tilt the blade down so it doesn't cut me. Quickly tap or press the knife down gently with the palm of your hand until the clove cracks slightly.
- The skin should loosen right away and peel off easily.
- If you have only got a few cloves to peel, this is usually the fastest way to do it.
Method 3: Shake Garlic in a Jar
- Place the cloves into a mason jar, secure the lid tightly, and shake it hard for about 20 to 30 seconds.
- As the cloves bounce around, the skins start loosening and separating from the garlic.
- This method works best with slightly older garlic that has drier skin. It is also something you can have your kids or partner help you with.
Method 4: Soak Garlic in Warm Water
- Some garlic just refuses to peel easily, and that's where warm water comes to the rescue.
- Place the cloves into a small bowl and pour hot water over them. The water should be hot but not boiling. Let them sit for about 2 to 3 minutes, then drain and peel.
- The warm water helps soften the skin and loosen it from the clove. Peeling soft skin is so satisfying!
Method 5: Slice the Garlic in Half to Peel
- Place the garlic clove on its side and slice it lengthwise from top to bottom. Once it's cut, the skin usually pulls away much more easily.