Garlic Flakes
Garlic flakes are dehydrated, sliced pieces of garlic cloves that have been dried to preserve their flavor, aroma, and shelf life. They are a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, offering similar pungency and health benefits with minimal preparation required.
Key Features of Garlic Flakes
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Form | Thin, flat slices or small chips of dried garlic cloves |
| Texture | Dry and brittle; rehydrates easily in liquids |
| Flavor | Strong, sharp, and pungent garlic taste |
| Color | Pale yellow to light brown |
| Processing | Made by peeling, slicing, and air- or heat-drying garlic |
Nutritional Value (per 100g, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 330–350 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 70–75 g |
| – Sugars | 2–3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8–10 g |
| Protein | 15–17 g |
| Fat | 0.5–1.0 g |
| Calcium | 70–90 mg |
| Iron | 3–5 mg |
| Potassium | 1,000–1,200 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15–25 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 1–2 mg |
Health Benefits
- Boosts immunity due to sulfur compounds (e.g., allicin)
- May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Supports heart health and circulation
- Contains antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory effects
- Acts as a natural antimicrobial and antifungal agent
Culinary Uses
- Used in soups, stews, sauces, curries, and meat rubs
- Common in seasoning blends, spice mixes, and instant food products
- Can be reconstituted with water or ground into garlic powder
Advantages Over Fresh Garlic
- Long shelf life
- No peeling or chopping required
- Consistent flavor and portion control
- Ideal for bulk storage, food manufacturing, and emergency kits
Summary:
Garlic flakes are a versatile, shelf-stable form of garlic ideal for both home cooking and commercial food production. They deliver the flavor and health benefits of fresh garlic in a convenient, easy-to-use form with minimal waste.
