Garlic granulation is a process that involves chopping fresh garlic cloves into small granules, which are then dehydrated to preserve their flavor and extend their shelf life. The process typically involves the following steps:
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Cleaning: The garlic cloves are first cleaned to remove any dirt or debris.
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Peeling: The outer papery layer of the garlic cloves is removed by hand or using a machine.
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Chopping: The peeled garlic cloves are chopped into small pieces using a food processor or grinder.
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Drying: The chopped garlic is spread out on trays and dried using a dehydrator, oven, or other drying method. The garlic is dried until it reaches a moisture content of around 6-8%.
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Granulating: The dried garlic is then processed through a granulator, which grinds the garlic into small, uniform-sized granules.
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Sieving: The granulated garlic is then passed through a series of sieves to remove any oversized or undersized granules and to ensure that the final product is uniform in size.
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Packaging: The garlic granules are then packaged into airtight containers to protect them from moisture and light.
Garlic granules can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic in a variety of recipes, such as soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. They can also be used as a seasoning for meat, vegetables, and other dishes.