Garlic Paste (Easy Homemade Cooking Staple)
This garlic paste is smooth, bold, and built for everyday cooking. It blends fresh garlic into a thick, spoonable base that’s ready to use in marinades, curries, stir-fries, and quick sautés. A small amount goes a long way, making it one of those fridge staples that speeds up prep and adds real depth to any savory dish.
Equipment
- Blender or small food processor
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass jar with lid
Ingredients
- 1 pound garlic cloves peeled
- ½ cup neutral oil such as sunflower oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Add the peeled garlic cloves to a blender or food processor.
- Add the salt and half of the oil. Blend until the garlic begins to break down into a thick paste.
- Stop and scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula so everything blends evenly. Add the remaining oil and continue blending until the mixture becomes a thick, slightly coarse paste.
- Transfer the garlic paste to a clean glass jar and smooth the top with a spoon. Pour a thin layer of oil over the surface to help preserve freshness.
- Store the jar tightly sealed in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Garlic paste should look slightly coarse and glossy, not completely smooth. This texture gives it the most natural flavor when used in cooking.
- Adding oil helps the paste blend smoothly and slows oxidation, so the garlic keeps its flavor longer.
- Store the paste in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, portion the paste into ice cube trays and freeze.
- This garlic paste can be added directly to marinades, curries, stir-fries, sauces, and soups.
