I Always Keep Garlic Peels – Let Me Share My Grandmother’s Secret with You

Garlic is a staple in many kitchens, celebrated for its robust flavor and numerous health benefits. While most of us discard garlic peels without a second thought, my grandmother had a secret that changed the way I view this humble kitchen byproduct. Let me share with you her age-old trick that turns garlic peels into a flavorful and versatile ingredient.

Why Keep Garlic Peels?

Garlic peels, often discarded, are packed with flavor and nutrients. They contain antioxidants and can add depth to many dishes. By keeping and using garlic peels, you can enhance your cooking while reducing waste. My grandmother’s secret was to use these peels to create a delightful garlic-infused broth that adds a subtle yet aromatic garlic flavor to dishes.

Ingredients

• Garlic peels (from 4-5 cloves of garlic)
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 1 carrot, roughly chopped
• 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 6 cups water
• Salt to taste

Method

1. Collect Garlic Peels: Keep garlic peels in a container in your fridge or freezer until you have enough to make a batch of broth. This is a great way to reduce kitchen waste and utilize every part of the garlic.
2. Prepare Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrot, and celery into large chunks. These vegetables will help to balance the garlic flavor and add more complexity to your broth.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the garlic peels, chopped vegetables, bay leaf, and thyme. Add the water and a pinch of salt.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The longer you simmer, the more intense the garlic flavor will become.
5. Strain: After simmering, strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another pot or bowl. Discard the solids (or compost them if you prefer).
6. Store: Let the broth cool to room temperature. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Use Garlic-Infused Broth

• Soup Base: Use it as a base for soups and stews to add a subtle garlic flavor.
• Cooking Liquid: Use it to cook grains like rice or quinoa for an extra layer of flavor.
• Sauces and Gravies: Incorporate it into sauces and gravies for a richer taste.
• Marinades: Use it as a component in marinades for meats or vegetables.

Tips and Variations

• Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add other herbs and spices to the broth, such as rosemary or peppercorns, to customize the flavor to your liking.
• Vegetable Peels: You can also add vegetable peels like potato or carrot peels for additional depth.

My grandmother’s secret not only helps to reduce waste but also adds a special touch to everyday dishes. Next time you’re about to discard those garlic peels, remember this recipe and turn them into a kitchen treasure. Enjoy your cooking adventures and the enhanced flavors that come from this simple yet brilliant trick!