Onion and garlic instantly enhance the flavour of almost any dish. However, peeling, chopping and grinding them every day can be time-consuming, especially during busy schedules. While ready-made onion and garlic powder are easily available in the market, they often contain preservatives. Preparing the powder at home is a simple and preservative-free alternative that can be stored for long-term use.
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How to make onion and garlic powder at home
First, wash the onion and garlic thoroughly and drain all excess water. Peel them properly before chopping. The pieces do not need to be very fine. You can use a chopper to speed up the process.
Next, keep the chopped onion and garlic separately on different plates. Place them under direct sunlight and cover with a clean, soft cloth. Allow them to dry in the sun for two to three days until they become completely moisture-free.
Once fully dried, ensure there is no softness left in the pieces. Grind the dried onion and garlic separately in a mixer to make fine powder.
If sunlight drying is not possible, you can dry the chopped onion and garlic in a microwave until all moisture evaporates. After that, grind them separately into powder.
Store both powders separately in airtight glass containers. There is no need to refrigerate them. They can be safely kept on kitchen shelves in a cool and dry place.
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How to use onion and garlic powder in cooking
Onion and garlic powder can be added to vegetable curries, soups, pasta and various other dishes. Since the powder form is more concentrated than fresh paste, use it in moderation. Adjust the quantity carefully to maintain the right balance of flavour in your recipes.
