Garlic salt is a kitchen staple that adds a burst of flavor to everything from popcorn to grilled meats. But did you know making your own garlic salt at home is super easy and tastes even better than store-bought? In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make garlic salt with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Plus, I’ll share some tips to customize it to your taste!
What Is Garlic Salt?
Garlic salt is basically a blend of salt and garlic-usually granulated or powdered garlic. It’s a convenient seasoning that combines the savory punch of garlic with the saltiness that enhances almost any dish. Unlike fresh garlic, garlic salt is dry and shelf-stable, making it perfect for quick seasoning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Salt: Kosher salt, sea salt, or even pink Himalayan salt work well.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves if you want to make it from scratch, or granulated/powdered garlic for a quicker version.
Optional:
– Black peppercorns, smoked paprika, or dried herbs if you want to add extra flavor twists.
How to Make Garlic Salt at Home
Method 1: Using Fresh Garlic (Baked Garlic Salt)
- Prepare the garlic: Peel 6 fresh garlic cloves and roughly chop them.
- Mix with salt: Combine ½ cup kosher salt with the garlic in a food processor or blender. Pulse until the garlic is finely chopped and mixed with the salt.
- Dry the mixture: Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake: Dry it in the oven at 200°F (about 93°C) for around 45 minutes to 1 hour. This removes moisture and prevents clumping.
- Final texture: Once dried, the mixture might be chunky. You can pulse it again in the food processor to get your preferred texture, from coarse to fine.
- Store: Keep your homemade garlic salt in an airtight container at room temperature.
Method 2: Using Granulated or Powdered Garlic (Quick Mix)
- Mix salt and garlic powder: Combine 3 parts salt to 1 part granulated garlic or garlic powder. For example, 1 cup salt and ⅓ cup garlic powder.
- Blend well: Stir or shake the mixture until evenly combined.
- Store: Place in an airtight jar or shaker. Adding a few grains of uncooked rice can help prevent clumping by absorbing moisture.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Salt
– Control saltiness: Adjust the salt-to-garlic ratio based on your preference. More garlic for a stronger flavor, more salt for seasoning.
– Roast garlic for sweetness: Roasting garlic before blending adds a sweeter, more complex flavor.
– Add extra spices: Try adding dried lime zest, smoked paprika, chili powder, or herbs like oregano and thyme to create your own signature blend.
– Dry thoroughly: Proper drying is key to prevent clumping and extend shelf life.
– Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to keep it fresh for up to a year.
Uses for Garlic Salt
Garlic salt is incredibly versatile. Sprinkle it on:
– Popcorn, fries, or roasted potatoes
– Grilled meats, chicken, or fish
– Salads and dressings
– Avocado toast or scrambled eggs
– Pasta dishes and pizza
It’s also a handy substitute for fresh garlic when you want quick flavor without the prep.
Making garlic salt at home is not only easy but also lets you customize your seasoning exactly how you like it. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh garlic and avoid preservatives found in store-bought versions. Give it a try and watch your dishes come alive with that perfect garlicky kick!
Ready to spice up your kitchen with homemade garlic salt? Have questions or want recipes for flavored variations? Just ask!