Look What I Can Do:
It can be used to perform a number of different tasks, including:
• Opening cans
• Cutting vegetables or fruits
• Peeling garlic or other vegetables
• Grating cheese or chocolate
• Spreading condiments or soft food items like peanut butter, jam, honey etc. on breads.
• Shredding carrots or nuts
• Mortaring fresh garlic, ginger, etc.
A garlic press is a kitchen utensil used to crush or grind garlic cloves. It is a small handheld device that has a cylindrical chamber with a screw-type mechanism that crushes the cloves as they are pressed down. Some models also have a small hole at the end that can be used to squeeze out the crushed garlic. A garlic press is an essential tool for any garlic lover.
Garlic presses come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The most common design is the type with a cylindrical chamber and screw-type mechanism. However, there are also newer designs that have a horizontal chamber instead of a vertical one. There are also some models that have a-slip grip or detachable parts. Most models are made of zinc alloy, stainless steel or aluminum.
The different variations of garlic press on the market come in two distinct forms; one that that is for regular-sized bulbs and another for large bulbs (for elephant garlic). A regular sized model will usually yield about one teaspoon of minced garlic, while a larger version can produce up to half a tablespoon. They also come with various designs on the plunger mechanism including straight ones or accordion-shaped.
A typical garlic press exerts pressure when pressed down onto peeled cloves. This causes the peel to separate from the clove which is then forced through small holes where it is pulverized into tiny bits. Some versions require pressing an unpeeled clove into the chamber, where the peel is then separated from the clove by the press.
Garlic presses are easy to use and can be very efficient when preparing garlic for cooking or flavoring.
A few steps that will ensure you get the most out of it are given below:
• Wash your hands before using a garlic press after holding raw meat or fish or touching dirty things like carpets, pets etc. This is to avoid getting cut with microorganisms on your fingers which could contaminate your food if not removed properly.
• Remove loose dirt under running water only, do not soak in water as this will promote bacterial growth inside of it. Do not put into dishwasher unless specifically approved manufacturer since high heat may cause the metal to warp and rust.
• Wash your garlic press regularly by rinsing with hot water and liquid dish soap. It is important to dry it thoroughly before storing as this will prevent corrosion. Putting a small amount of cooking oil on the spring can also help prevent it from corroding over time.
The following are some options that you have when shopping for a garlic press:
1) Porcelain garlic press – these presses have a porcelain or enameled cast iron base which makes them durable and provides good heat retention, making them excellent for cooking purposes. They require extra care though because they’re easy to chip or crack if not used properly. However, there are manufacturers specially designed their products with strong materials like metal to make them less vulnerable.
2) Ball-handled garlic press – this is made of one piece of cast aluminum with a plastic handle which is ideal for those who want something sturdy yet lightweight. It’s also very easy to clean and its rubberized grip minimizes slippage during pressing. The only downside to it though, is that the push plate may not last as long as other types because it has a plastic coating on it.
3) Winged garlic press – this press features a 2-piece design, wherein the inner part containing the blades can be removed from the outer shell for easier cleaning. This type comes in various designs including those with stainless steel handles or those with silicone covers wrapped around hard plastic shells.
4) Porcelain or enameled cast iron garlic press – these are the most popular type of presses, which have a good heat retention that can be used for cooking purposes. They’re available in various designs with stainless steel handles, silicone sleeves wrapped around plastic shells, etc.
5) Stainless steel garlic press – this is one of the more flexible types because it can also be used to crush ginger and nuts aside from garlic plus it’s easy to operate and clean. Some models have removable plates so cleaning is easier while others have detachable handles to make storage easier. Its only downside though, is that it may leave some residue on your food if not properly cleaned after use.
The different variations of garlic press on the market can be overwhelming, but with a little research it will be easier to find the perfect one for your needs. Keep the aforementioned tips in mind when shopping and you’re sure to get a tool that will make preparing garlic a breeze.