10 November 2015 Garlic Preparation 10 November 2015 Garlic Preparation To maximize health benefits, crush the garlic at room temperature and allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes or longer. That triggers an enzyme reaction that boosts the healthy compounds in garlic.To make smaller pieces a mortar and pestle is used after crushing in the tortilla press.By cooking on low heat for a few minutes in butter the stinging effect is eliminated. My method is to separate the cloves from the bulb. Crush one clove with skin by pressing down on the tortilla press without using the handle. Remove the skin easily.Crush again using the full force of the press handle. Scrap into the mortar. Complete for all cloves. Work the pestle to make smaller pieces if desired.Let stand for at least 15 minutes before using. If cooking use low heat and fry for a few minutes. This removes the hot stinging taste.It may be used raw in salads or other dishes. There are hand garlic presses similar to pliers, that do not function well and are awkward to clean.
