How to Mash Garlic

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Things You'll Need

  • Garlic clove(s)

  • Chef's knife

  • Cutting board

  • Kosher or sea salt

Mashed garlic can be used in almost any savory dish. Mashing, rather than dicing or chopping garlic, softens the flavor and allows it to blend more easily into sauces, soups and dressings. Garlic can be mashed in just a few steps.

Step 1

Remove a clove of garlic from the bunch, and place it on the cutting board. Chop off and discard the woody ends.

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Step 2

Place the side of a chef's knife flat against the garlic clove. Place the heel of your hand on the side of the knife and apply pressure so that the clove splinters. This will loosen the peel.

Step 3

Remove and discard the peel. Chop the garlic roughly.

Step 4

Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt over the garlic. Use the flat part of the knife as before to press the garlic against the cutting board. Repeat until the garlic turns into a fine paste. The mashed garlic is now ready for use in your favorite recipe.

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