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Garlic, a staple in kitchens worldwide, not only enhances flavor but also offers significant health benefits. However, many people may not be using it to its full potential, missing out on some of its most impressive advantages. Here’s how to incorporate garlic into your routine correctly and avoid common mistakes.
The Right Way to Use Garlic
Garlic is known for supporting heart health, boosting the immune system, and acting as a natural antibiotic. To maximize these benefits, proper handling and preparation are crucial.
Let It Sit After Chopping: A common mistake is using garlic immediately after chopping or crushing. Garlic contains allicin, its key active component, which forms when chopped and exposed to air. For maximum health benefits, let chopped garlic sit for about 10-15 minutes before cooking. This waiting period enhances the allicin content, making it more absorbable by the body.
Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking garlic can destroy its allicin and other nutrients. To preserve its health benefits, add garlic towards the end of the cooking process. A few minutes of cooking is sufficient to infuse its flavor into your dish without compromising its health properties.