Black Garlic

You may have heard of black garlic, and you might even have seen it, but do you know how to use it or even what it is?

Lots of sites will tell you that black garlic is fermented, but really, it truly, it's garlic that has undergone a chemical reaction process called the Maillard Reaction. You'll have seen this start if you've ever seared a steak and gotten that beautiful crust, or a scallop -- this is the reason "brown food tastes good"

In order to trigger this Maillard Reaction, you have to keep garlic bulbs under a controlled environment with specific temperature and humidity levels for a specific length of time. At the end of the process, the garlic has been  transformed into dark, glossy cloves with a complex flavor profile. The process breaks down the compounds that give raw garlic its sharp bite,  Tresulting in a milder, sweeter product with notes of molasses, balsamic vinegar, and umami.

One of the most appealing aspects of black garlic is its versatility in the kitchen. Unlike raw garlic, which can overpower a dish, black garlic adds depth and richness without the pungent aftertaste that's deeper and richer than roasted garlic. You can slice it and add it to cheese boards for an elegant appetizer, mince it into salad dressings for a subtle savory note, or incorporate it into marinades for meats and vegetables. It pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, works wonderfully in soups and stews, and can even be spread on toast like a savory jam. Many chefs use it as a finishing touch on dishes where its sweet, complex flavor can shine.

Beyond its culinary appeal, black garlic has been valued in traditional wellness practices for centuries. The process that creates that black garlic is believed to enhance and concentrate the beneficial compounds naturally present in garlic. Some people incorporate black garlic into their wellness routines to support overall vitality and immune function. It contains antioxidants and may support cardiovascular health when included as part of a balanced diet. While black garlic is not a substitute for medical treatment, many wellness enthusiasts appreciate it as a flavorful addition to a health-conscious lifestyle.

Black garlic is also easier on the digestive system compared to raw garlic, making it a gentler option for those with sensitive stomachs. The fermentation process breaks down some of the compounds that can cause digestive discomfort, allowing more people to enjoy garlic's benefits without the side effects.

Lavish Little Spice Co. will have black garlic available in it's full sticky bulb form, as dried and diced, as a powder, and in various blends including salts, and spice blends. It's going to take a little time for these to become available due to the 'fermentation' time, but it's working right now, and is coming soon!