Black garlic recipes for the home cook

Black garlic’s unique sweet and savory flavor, along with its soft and almost jelly-like texture, can add depth to a variety of dishes. Here are three simple black garlic recipes for the home cook:

1. Black Garlic Butter:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4-5 cloves of black garlic, mashed
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine softened butter and mashed black garlic.
2. Mix in chopped parsley and season with salt to taste.
3. Blend the ingredients until well combined.
4. Spoon the black garlic butter onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
5. Roll it into a log shape, twisting the ends to seal.
6. Refrigerate until firm.
7. Slice the black garlic butter and use it to enhance the flavor of grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or spread it on warm bread.

2. Black Garlic Hummus:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4-5 cloves of black garlic, mashed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water (as needed for consistency)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, mashed black garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and ground cumin.
2. Process until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the black garlic hummus to a serving bowl.
5. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of cumin.
6. Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or crackers.

3. Black Garlic Balsamic Glaze:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 4-5 cloves of black garlic, mashed
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and mashed black garlic.
2. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add honey or maple syrup.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until the glaze thickens, stirring occasionally (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Allow the black garlic balsamic glaze to cool before using.
7. Drizzle over salads, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or use as a finishing touch for dishes.

Feel free to experiment with these recipes and adjust the quantities of black garlic based on your taste preferences. Black garlic’s complex and sweet umami flavor can elevate various dishes, turning your home-cooked meals into gourmet experiences.