Garlic is an indispensable ingredient used in almost all cuisines worldwide. Thanks to its distinctive savory flavors, it’s often used to prepare yummy condiments and seasonings that can take any meal to the next level.
Garlic’s also used in different forms around the kitchen. While some recipes call for fresh garlic, others may require processed forms.
When it comes to processed garlic, however, granulated garlic is one of the most popular types available in the market.
What Is Granulated Garlic?
Granulated garlic is a form of dried garlic. It’s prepared by grounding peeled and dehydrated garlic cloves to make granules. Plus, it has a very distinctive texture that can be compared to the texture of cornflakes.
Granulated garlic can be stored for several months in a cool and dark place. The best part is that the granules don’t turn rancid, even when stored for a long time.
Ultimately, granulated garlic is generally a bit pricier as compared to other forms of garlic.
What does it taste like?
Granulated garlic tastes more or less the same as other forms of dried garlic, such as garlic powder. The main difference lies in the texture of the garlic and the intensity of the flavor.
A roasted version of granulated garlic is also available in the market. It’s essentially used to add a mellow, nutty flavor to dishes. On the other hand, regular granulated garlic has a more potent and sharp “garlicky” taste as compared to the roasted version.
Granulated garlic vs. garlic powder
Granulated garlic is closely related to garlic powder. Both are processed forms of garlic made from dehydrated cloves. Granulated garlic is produced by crushing dried garlic to make granules.
On the other hand, garlic powder is produced by pulverizing dehydrated garlic to powder form. Naturally, granulated garlic has a coarse texture, while garlic powder has a very fine texture resembling flour.
Substitutes for granulated garlic
Did you know that you can use granulated garlic in place of fresh cloves? It’s simple! You can replace an average-sized clove with 1/3t of soaked granules in most recipes.
But what to do when your recipe calls for granulated garlic, and you’re all out of it? Well, no need to worry – here are some of the best granulated garlic substitutes that you can use to add the same delectable flavors to your recipes without using granulated garlic.
1. Garlic powder
Garlic powder is the most obvious choice. However, keep in mind that since garlic powder is finely grounded, you’ll need only a small amount to substitute granulated garlic.
If the recipe requires 1t of granulated garlic, you can replace it with 1/2t of garlic powder.
In other words, reduce the quantity to half when using garlic powder as granulated garlic replacement.
2. Garlic flakes
Garlic flakes make a great substitute for granulated garlic. However, also keep in mind that granulated garlic has a more potent flavor as compared to garlic flakes.
When you’re using garlic flakes in place of granulated garlic, use double the amount of granules mentioned in the recipe. So, if the recipe requires 1t of granulated garlic, you can use 2t of garlic flakes instead.
3. Garlic salt
Garlic salt is typically a mixture of salt and garlic granules. It contains 1 part granulated garlic and 3 parts salt. When using garlic salt as a substitute for garlic granules, you can add 1t of garlic salt for every 1/4t of granulated garlic.
Garlic salt has a high salt content. As it is, it’s best to avoid adding extra salt when you use garlic salt in place of granules. Even then, you cannot use garlic salt in large amounts to replace granulated garlic.
The bottom line
Whether you use it fresh or in powdered or granulated form – garlic can add some additional oomph to your favorite recipes. Now that you know what granulated garlic is and some of its best replacements, you’ll never have to worry about running out of granulated garlic replacements in the kitchen right here on out!
What is granulated garlic
This guide features how to make your own granulated garlic substitute using garlic powder. Use this replacement if you're running out of the ingredient.
Ingredients
- 1/2t garlic powder
Instructions
- If the recipe requires 1t of granulated garlic, you can replace it with 1/2t of garlic powder.