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Introduction:
Garlic is widely known for its health benefits, including boosting immunity, improving heart health, and possessing antimicrobial properties. However, many people unknowingly make a common mistake when preparing garlic, which can greatly reduce its potential health benefits. This article will shed light on what this mistake is and how you can maximize the benefits of garlic by avoiding it.
Ingredients:
Fresh garlic cloves
How to Make:
Peel the garlic cloves and crush or chop them finely.
Let the garlic sit for about 5-10 minutes before cooking or consuming.
You can add the garlic to your dishes, smoothies, or salads.
Why It Works:
The key mistake most people make when using garlic is cooking it immediately after crushing or chopping. When garlic is chopped or crushed, it releases an enzyme called alliinase, which converts a compound called alliin into allicin—the compound responsible for most of garlic's health benefits. However, allicin is unstable and can degrade if it’s exposed to heat too soon. Letting the garlic sit for a few minutes before cooking allows the alliinase enzyme to work and ensures that allicin is fully formed, maximizing the garlic’s health benefits.
Serving and Storage Tips:
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