Culinary Uses
Direct Flavor Enhancement: Add directly when stir-frying, stewing meat, or cooking noodles-no chopping required. They eliminate gamey odors and boost umami; the flavor is even better when cooked alongside star anise and cinnamon.
Rehydration as a Fresh Garlic Substitute: Soak in warm water for 10 minutes to restore softness. They can replace fresh garlic in marinating ingredients or making garlic sauces (such as "gold and silver" garlic).
Health and Wellness Uses
Steep 3–5 slices in water or add them to porridge or soups daily. The allicin and sulfides they contain help inhibit bacteria and regulate blood lipids, making them suitable for those with high blood lipids; individuals with a "cold" constitution (spleen/stomach deficiency) can pair them with ginger to balance the effects.
Soak 50g of garlic slices in 500ml of white liquor with goji berries in a sealed container for two weeks; consuming a small amount daily can help improve blood circulation.
Practical Household Uses
Wrap in gauze and place in rice bins or wardrobes (replacing quarterly) to repel insects, prevent mold, and inhibit the development of insect eggs.
Grind into a powder and mix with olive oil to apply topically; this can help alleviate athlete's foot and eczema (do not use on broken skin).
