As an alternative to garlic powder, the use of garlic granules is one way of infusing flavor into many types of cuisine. While not as popular as powdered garlic, granules are sometimes called for in specific recipes. In some cases, it is necessary to adapt recipes for the use of granulated garlic rather than using garlic salt or powder.
Garlic granules, like their powdered cousin, are made of dried garlic that has been processed into a handy packaged kitchen spice. Containing no added salts or other spices, they measure in the same way that garlic salt is measured. This is important to remember, since the granules are not used in the same measurements as garlic powder. Typically, it takes two parts to provide the same level of flavor as would be obtained with the use of garlic powder. At the same time, the granules can be measured in a manner similar to garlic salt in most recipes.
When converting any recipe to use garlic granules rather than garlic powder, simply double the recipe. As an example, if 1 teaspoon (3.1 grams) of garlic powder is called for, use 2 teaspoons (6.4 grams) of granules. The taste of the recipe will remain the same. On the other hand, anyone who is trying to avoid garlic salt can use the same amount of granules in the recipe and achieve a similar taste. Using the granules allows the individual to get more health benefits from the garlic, while eliminating the health issues often associated with excess use of garlic salt.
In fact, garlic granules can be used to help minimize or even eliminate the use of table salt in the home. Just about any recipe that calls for the addition of salt will taste just fine if this spice is used instead. There is no need to convert the amounts to use, since salt and granules measure alike. Persons concerned about high blood pressure will find this substitution very helpful, since garlic not only is an excellent for enhancing flavor, but also is thought by herbalists to help the body to regulate blood pressure.
While garlic granules are not able to add the same texture to foods that can be achieved by using minced garlic, they are a great way to keep the spice around the home without any concerns of the garlic becoming rancid. Just like garlic salt or powder, the granules can be stored in a cool dry place and will remain fresh for several months.
Some people have difficulty finding garlic granules in supermarkets, but many high-end food markets will carry them, as well as a number of health food stores around the country. Their price is often more than the cost for a similar amount of the more popular garlic powder and salts, although there is not a great deal in difference in what you will pay. Still, for people who wish to make a dietary change and eliminate salt from their foods, this seasoning is a great way to do so without having to stop and think about changing the quantity of spice used in most recipes.
