SUPER FOOd: BLACK GARLIC
Although not as famous as white garlic, black
garlic is slowly taking over the market, especially
as an alternative natural herbal medicine.

Introduced into the market from Korea, this
type of garlic is mainly prepared through a
“fermentation” process lasting at least one month.

The process is done under controlled humidity
and heat, with the end product being black-
colored garlic. Herbalists and natural medicine
practitioners praise this superfood (invented less
than five years ago) as one of the new additions to
herbal medicine.

TEXT Kevin CK Lee



Black Garlic Health Benefits:
1. Cholesterol and cancer protection.

Black Garlic Dip
This breed of garlic is a rich source of S-allyl Cysteine, a natural
compound that helps lower blood cholesterol, thus helping to
prevent most major cardiovascular conditions. Although this
• 1 black garlic bulb
compound is also found in fresh garlic, the fermentation process
• 4 tablespoons sour cream
of black garlic tends to amplify its presence, increasing its
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
concentrations after the one month of controlled fermentation.

• 1 tablespoon shallots, minced
This compound is also a derivative of the amino acid cysteine,
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• ½ cup toasted walnuts, chopped
• pinch of salt
which can help reduce cancer risk.

2. Infection protection.

Naturally, white garlic contains an antibiotic, antifungal and
antimicrobial active ingredient, allicin, whereas its counterpart
contains this plus S-allyl Cysteine, a compound (as mentioned
before) that boosts allicin absorption and metabolism in the body.

By boosting allicin absorption and metabolism, the body benefits
In a small blender, combine half the cloves
of black garlic, sour cream and olive oil until
smooth. With a knife, mince remaining black
garlic cloves. In a small bowl, combine all
greatly from improved immunity and ability to fight infections.

ingredients except walnuts, and mix until
3. Improved immunity.

covered, for 24 hours to let flavors meld.

smooth. Fold in walnuts. Chill in refrigerator,
Although white, fresh garlic contains plentiful antioxidants,
black garlic contains twice as much. Antioxidants help protect
Serve with vegetables or crackers.

body cells from disease-causing microorganisms, slow down the
aging process and boost skin health. It is through the improved
(Source: Savory Spice Shop)
immunity levels that the body can fight and protect itself from
many health conditions. The fermentation process, however,
amplifies the antioxidants potential, providing improved cell
protection from free radical damage and chronic diseases.

Some of the diseases that can help be contained by using black
Black Garlic Ranch Dressing
• 3 cloves black garlic, mashed
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 cups buttermilk
• 12 cups mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 cup minced Italian parsley
people are switching to the blackened garlic, as it doesn't pose
• 1 cup minced chives
any olfactory effects when consumed in large quantities.

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
garlic include cardiovascular infections, rheumatoid arthritis,
respiratory conditions, dementia and Alzheimer's, among other
chronic conditions.

Black garlic is considerably more palatable and easier for most
people to eat because it doesn't contain or produce the strong
flavor or pungent odor like white, fresh garlic. More and more
Although black garlic has more health benefits than white garlic,
In a large bowl, mash black garlic with a
this doesn't mean you should quit using white garlic. White
fork until it forms a paste. Put vinegar and
garlic is naturally healthy and does have many health benefits
to the human body; it’s only that black garlic has surpassed it.

You should, however, consider using black garlic whenever
possible, especially in salad dressing, with other veggies or when
preparing chicken, turkey or red meat.

Kevin CK Lee is a blogger, writer and marketer. He writes articles on food and
traveling. If you're interested in finding out more details about black garlic, visit
www.blackgarlic.com.sg. sugar in a mixing bowl, then add buttermilk,
mayonnaise and onion powder, and whisk.

Add herbs and lemon juice, and season with
kosher salt.

(Source: Ryan Scott, www.rachaelrayshow.com)
washingtonFAMILY.com March 2016
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