Garlic is a kitchen essential, whether you’re preparing curries, stir-fries, or marinades, it brings bold flavour and a punch of nutrition. But once you’ve bought a bulb or made your own garlic paste, how do you store it to keep it fresh and safe to eat?
In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to store garlic in its different forms, whole, chopped, and as a paste, with tips to preserve flavour and shelf life.
How to Store Whole Garlic Bulbs
Whole garlic bulbs should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, ideally in a garlic keeper or mesh bag. Avoid the fridge, as moisture can encourage mould growth and sprouting.
Best Practices:
- Store in a ceramic garlic keeper to allow air flow.
- Keep away from sunlight and heat.
- Never store in sealed plastic containers or bags.
Recommended tool:
How to Store Chopped or Crushed Garlic
Once garlic is chopped, its shelf life shortens. You can refrigerate it for up to a week in a sealed container. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in small portions.
Storage Tips:
- Add a small amount of olive oil to reduce oxidation.
- Store in glass spice jars with tight lids.
- Freeze crushed garlic in ice cube trays for convenient portioning.
Recommended storage:
Glass Spice Jars – Amazon UK
Premium Olive Oil – Amazon UK
How to Store Garlic Paste
Garlic paste is super convenient, but it can spoil quickly if not stored properly. If you’ve made a fresh batch, here’s how to keep it safe and usable:
- Store in sterilised airtight jars in the fridge.
- Add a layer of oil on top to create a barrier from air.
- Use clean utensils when scooping to avoid contamination.
For long-term storage, freeze garlic paste in silicone trays and defrost as needed.
Want to make your own? Check out our easy homemade garlic paste recipe, it only takes 10 minutes and uses minimal ingredients.
Recommendations:
Mini Food Processor – Amazon UK
Glass Storage Jars – Amazon UK
Quick Guide: Storage Methods at a Glance
| Form | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
| Whole Bulb | Dry, ventilated container | Up to 3 months |
| Chopped | Fridge with oil, airtight jar | 5–7 days |
| Garlic Paste | Fridge (with oil) or freeze | 1 week / 3 months |
Final Tips
- Always label your jars with the date.
- If garlic changes colour or smells off, discard it.
- Store only what you’ll use – fresher garlic tastes better.
With a few simple steps, you can reduce waste, boost flavour, and save time in the kitchen. Whether you’re storing fresh garlic bulbs or a homemade garlic paste, using the right tools makes a huge difference.
