Garlic Flakes

Also known as Allium sativum, garlic is a common household ingredient for cooking. It makes a great base flavour or can be used as a seasoning enhancer for many dishes around the world.

Garlic is a species of bulbous flowering plant in the Alliaceae family. Its close relatives include the onion, shallot, leek and chive. This perennial plant grows to around 60cm tall and has a creamy white bulb. Native to central Asia, today this plant can be found growing in Italy and southern France and is a prime ingredient for the nation’s best-loved dishes. The bulb contains a powerful onion-like aroma. Each bulb contains around 20 cloves.

Garlic contains sulphur compounds including allicin, glycosides including sativoside B1 and peptides, among other compounds and has also been used for many herbal remedies and treatments throughout history.

How is it used?

In mediaeval times, the bulb was used for herbal treatments and was even carried to ward off vampires. Today, it’s one of the most widely used seasoning ingredients around the world.

Garlic flakes are a convenient and versatile dried form of garlic that can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic in various recipes. Retaining the full flavour of fresh garlic, the flakes can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, sauces, seasoning blends, and as a topping for rice, grains, and baked goods. They are made by dehydrating fresh garlic, resulting in a dried, flaky texture. They are a great option that avoids the hassle of peeling and chopping.

Garlic produces a chemical called allicin, which gives the flesh its distinctive smell. It’s believed that garlic can control high blood pressure and high levels of cholesterol or other fats in the blood, but more scientific evidence is needed. Historically, garlic was used to treat respiratory issues such as bronchitis.

Natural products can cause side effects. As with any food product or herbal supplement, it is advisable to seek professional advice before newly incorporating into one’s routine or into a new product, especially for individuals who are susceptible to allergies, have dietary issues, weakened immune systems or other health complications.

Important: Joseph Flach & Sons are not herbalists and are unable to offer advice on or attest to the efficacy or suitability of a material for use in a herbal remedy or as a product ingredient.