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Garlic is undoubtedly a staple ingredient in most Okanagan kitchens, but did you know that it has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries?
1. Nutritional Composition of Garlic
Garlic is a low-calorie vegetable that’s a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese. It is particularly rich in allicin, a sulfur compound that gives garlic its distinct flavour and aroma. Allicin has also been shown to have numerous health benefits, from reducing blood pressure to improving cholesterol levels.
2. Health Benefits of Garlic
At Don-O-Ray Farms we love garlic and thought you might like to know there is current research to support its many health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider dropping by our Farm and adding more garlic to your diet:
- Prevents and fights infections: Garlic has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that can help prevent and fight infections. It’s particularly effective against colds and flu.
- Reduces cholesterol and blood pressure: Garlic has been shown to reduce both total cholesterol and blood pressure, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Reduces the risk of certain cancers: Some studies have linked garlic consumption to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, including stomach and colon cancer.
3. How to Incorporate Garlic into Meals
- Add it to sauces: Garlic is a popular ingredient in many sauces, from our butter chicken sauce to pesto. It can add complexity to the flavours and give the sauce an extra kick.
- Roast it: Roasting garlic brings out its nutty, sweet flavours and softens its texture. Try roasting a whole head of garlic and spreading the cloves on bread or adding them to a salad.
- Use it in marinades: Garlic can add flavour to marinades for meats and vegetables. It can also help tenderize meat.
4. Tips for Storing and Preparing Garlic
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when storing and preparing garlic:
- Store garlic in a cool, dark place away from moisture. A pantry or cabinet is a good option. Don’t store garlic in the refrigerator, as it can cause the garlic to sprout.
- When preparing garlic, be sure to remove the papery outer layers and any green shoots. These can taste bitter and be difficult to digest.
- To make garlic easier to peel, crush the cloves slightly with the flat side of a chef’s knife, then remove the skin.
Garlic is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can add flavor to any dish. Whether you’re fighting a cold or just looking to improve your cholesterol levels, garlic can help. Try incorporating more garlic into your diet by adding it to sauces, roasting it, or using it in marinades. And be sure to store and prepare garlic properly for the best results. At Don-O-Ray Farms we love garlic and are proud to offer a variety of garlic products to our customers. Visit us at our Kelowna location to find the perfect garlic bulb for your next meal.
Shop For Local Farm to Table Food
Here at Don-O-Ray Farms, we take great pride in growing our own top-quality vegetables on 45 acres which are PICKED FRESH DAILY. The fruit we sell is all grown locally in the Okanagan because we believe the closer the farm, the fresher and more nutritious your produce. We have ample parking, and you can even take a tour of the farm or bring your children to enjoy our petting zoo and ice cream.
Okanagan Based Fruit/Vegetable Stand
Once again, our store is full of local fruit, herbs & veggies, ice cream, baked goods & our delicious homemade sauces, locally sourced meat and other farm products. Current hours are 9 am to 7 pm, 7 days a week.
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Family Entertainment – Petting Zoo, Archery, Maze and more!
