Find out how to prepare garlic to preserve its flavor and health benefits.

Preparing garlic in certain ways can both boost its flavor and enhance its health benefits.

Read on to find out how to prepare and cook with garlic for maximum potency.

fresh garlic on a table

Plus, learn how to cure garlic breath and get rid of smelly garlic hands.

Allicina helpful immune-boosting and cancer-fighting compoundis most potent in fresh cloves.

That triggers healthy sulfide compounds, such as allicin, to form.

garlic bulbs in bowl

What’s the Best Way to Prep Garlic: Crush, Mince or Mash?

Intact garlic cloves are mildest of all.

Mashing minced garlic with a pinch of coarse salt can help tame the harsh flavor.

garlic on cutting board

To do this, lay the flat side of the knife on top of a clove of garlic.

Remove the skin, then trim the root end.

How to Mince Garlic

How to Mash Garlic into a Paste

4.

crushing garlic in ziplock

Rinse hands well with water.

Watch: How to Make Broccoli & Kale with Toasted Garlic Butter

crushing garlic with knife blade

mincing garlic

mashing garlic with knife

Garlic Lover’s Rub