Garlic Lovers Delight

Do you love garlic? Then you should be happy to learn that we recently celebrated National Garlic Day on April 19^th. This was a day dedicated to honoring this pungent clove. Though it is unknown who determined April 19^th to be National Garlic Day or why, garlic lovers are just happy to have the opportunity to celebrate.

Why is garlic so great? Garlic is an herb as well as a vegetable that holds several nutritional benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C and thiamin, and minerals calcium, magnesium and iron. Garlic also carries cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral benefits. It is also has anti-cancer benefits due to the allyl sulfides it contains.

Garlic is part of the lily family and is a relative to onions, leeks and chives. It is native to central Asia with history dating back 6000 years. China is the largest producer of garlic while the U.S. is the sixth top producer. The herb is a staple of Mediterranean diets and is commonly used in African, Asian and European cooking.

During growth, garlic develops into a bulb orientation made up of several individual cloves. Both the bulbs and cloves are encased paper-like sheaths that can be white, off white, or have a pink or purple hue. Garlic should be purchased plump and with unbroken skin. It is best stored in a cool dry place, and if stored correctly, can keep for up to a month. Garlic is no longer good if it develops mold or begins to sprout.

The health benefits of garlic are best kept in tact when it is crushed or chopped. Garlic contains the phytonutrient alliin, which is converted into allicin through an enzymatic process that is stimulated by crushing and chopping. Allicin is the compound to which many of its nutritional benefits can be attributed. Garlic should sit for at least five minutes to allow the enzymatic process to progress for maximum health benefits before adding to meals.

Since extensive ranges of cuisines are familiar with garlic, it is very versatile and can be added to almost anything. Therefore, it is recommended to use raw garlic in many recipes or waiting until the last five minutes of cooking time to add garlic to dishes. Adding garlic toward the end of cooking will better retain its nutritional and health benefits.

Now it’s your turn to take action: You can learn more about garlic and other herbs and spices by joining the FREE 30 Day Cut Your Salt Challenge starting May 1^st. Get ready to Cut the Salt and Kick up the Flavor. Join here. No cost, win prizes!

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