Shaving garlic involves creating thin, flat pieces, rather than mincing it into tiny bits. This technique is great for adding subtle garlic flavor to dishes without the intense bite of minced garlic.
Methods for Shaving Garlic
There are several ways to effectively shave garlic:
Method 1: Using a Knife
- Peel the garlic: First, peel the cloves. A simple method is to gently press down on a clove with the flat side of a knife blade to break the skin, then peel it off.
- Slice thinly: Place a peeled clove on a cutting board and carefully slice it into very thin pieces, almost like paper-thin shavings. The reference video mentions this step: "carefully cut the garlic into thin slices".
- Chop further (optional): If you desire even smaller pieces, continue chopping the slices until you reach your preferred size. The reference indicates this as well: "And then continue chopping until your desired size is reached."
Method 2: Using a Microplane or Grater
A microplane zester or fine grater can also create garlic shavings. Simply rub the peeled garlic clove back and forth across the grater's surface. This method produces very fine shavings, ideal for delicate sauces or dressings.
Choosing the Right Method
The best method depends on your desired result and available tools. For larger, visible shavings, use a knife. For finer, more even shavings, a microplane is a better choice.
Remember, regardless of the method chosen, the goal is to create thin, flat pieces of garlic. This allows for even cooking and distribution of flavour.
