Wed Apr 19th

National Garlic Day

National Garlic Day is held on April 19th, a vegetable also known as the stinking rose. For thousands of years, the fragrant and robust root has been seasoning dishes.

This stenchulent rose is a member of the lily family. This family also uses the delectable onions, leeks, and shallote that we use in some of our favorite dishes. Garlic originated in Asia over 7,000 years ago, so it's no surprise that cuisines around the world incorporate it into their most popular dishes.

Garlic is very versatile, as shown by its numerous medicinal uses. The mighty bulb is considered an herbal remedy for colds and can also reduce blood pressure and cholesterol. The antibiotic properties of garlic have also been established by modern science.

Garlic reeks from Myth and superstition. The most common one claims that garlic wards off vampires. This same theory appeared to work on witches, werewolves, demons, and other such devils one might cross. We also learn that garlic grew from satan's left footprint when he left the Garden of Eden. The bulb was used by Greek midwives to discourage evil spirits from being present, as well as courage-filled Roman soldiers who ate the bulb.

We also need to think about our dreams and garlic. Our dreams often have meaning, and dreaming of garlic is no different. To dream about garlic in the house brings good luck, but there may be undiscovered secrets in the dream, especially in a pesto sauce. Over 300 varieties of garlic grow around the world, with some people dreaming about them as well.

How to celebrate #nationalgarlicday

  • Cook a delectable dish with garlic to mark the day
  • Attend one of the world's largest garlic festivals
  • Using garlic, you can make your favorite dishes
  • Plant garlic in your garden so you can have the freshest bulbs possible
  • Images of delectable garlic dishes are shared on the internet
  • To your pizza, pasta, or bread, add some extra garlic
  • To post on social media, use the hashtag #NationalGarlicDay

Garlic FAQ

Q. Where is the world's garlic capital?

A. Gilroy, California, is regarded as the world's Garlic Capital. Will Rogers was once quoted as saying it is "the only place in America where you can marinate a steak without hanging it out on a clothesline."

Q. How can I grow garlic?

A. Garlic grows best in cooler climates because it needs to endure several weeks of colloid and dormancy to produce new bulbs. Purchase garlic bulbs from a nursery for best results and plant them in the fall to reap the benefits the following year. Plant in a well-drained, rich soil. Different species of garlic bulbs thrive in different climates, so consult with your local nursery to determine the best garlic bulbs for your area.

Q. How long will garlic last?

If stored in a cool, dry, dark space, an unpeeled clove can last up to six weeks or longer. A. An unpeeled clove can live for up to six weeks or longer.

Q. Can I freeze garlic?

A. Yes. Yes. Nearly every form of garlic, from whole bulb to minced garlic, can be frozen. Seal in an air-tight, freezer-safe container. For minced garlic, cut into teaspoon-sized portions and freeze on a baking sheet. Place in a freezer bag once frozen and store in a freezer bag.