
Garlic powder, with its distinctive but less intense aroma of fresh garlic, is a spice obtained by dehydrating and crushing garlic cloves. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is used worldwide in cooking for its characteristic flavor. Garlic powder has a long history, dating back over five millennia, and has been consumed for its flavor and protective properties in different civilizations. It is rich in minerals, vitamins and trace elements, which gives it therapeutic properties, in particular thanks to its natural antibiotics and its role as a hypotensive. It also promotes cardiovascular health, strengthens the immune system and improves digestion. In cooking, garlic powder can be used in a variety of ways. Its fine texture allows it to be easily incorporated into preparations, and it is ideal for flavoring oil, butter, sauces (such as mayonnaise and aioli), soups and salads. It can also replace fresh garlic to flavor stir-fried vegetables and seafood dishes. To reveal the full flavor of garlic powder, it is recommended to add it at the end of cooking, using about half a teaspoon for each medium-sized garlic clove. Some recommended recipes to highlight garlic powder include Garlic Meatballs, Garlic Fried Rice, and Garlic-Herb Cream Cheese. Garlic powder is a versatile ingredient that adds a signature flavor to a variety of dishes, in addition to its health benefits.