How to Pick a Garlic Press

Fresh garlic is a culinary must for accomplished chefs. Compared to the dried version, fresh garlic is more flavorful. Peeling and mincing garlic with a knife can be a messy and time-consuming process. To solve this problem, many cooks use a garlic press. A garlic press pushes the garlic clove through small holes. A press is quick and easily cleaned. Follow these steps to pick a garlic press.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Examine the construction. Garlic presses may be made from stainless steel, aluminum or heavy plastic. Plastic may become dull or may break more easily. The hinge of the press should be strong for pressing large cloves. If it appears flimsy, do not select that garlic press.

2. Feel the handle. A good garlic press handle will fit comfortably in the hand. If it is too big, it will be too difficult to close in order to press all the garlic clove through. Some garlic presses offer a plastic padding on the handles, which can add comfort.

3. Be practical. A complicated and expensive garlic press may not be the best press. A simple, sturdy press is more likely to be used and enjoyed.

4. Look for cleaning prongs. With so many little holes, a garlic press can be tricky to clean thoroughly. Many garlic presses come with a cleaning device, either attached or separate, with prongs to insert into the holes for removing leftover garlic. This can aid the cleaning process.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean a garlic press immediately after use. The remaining peel and garlic is sticky and will become hard to remove if it dries. If this is not possible, put the press in a cup of warm water until able to clean.
• Garlic presses can be used for mashing other ingredients. Ginger, olives and capers can be mashed in a press. The press may also be used as a miniature juicer for extracting juice from small onions or shallots.

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