If you love garlic as much as I do, then you know that there are many different ways to roast garlic. You can roast garlic in the oven, on the stovetop, or even in the air fryer.
But did you know that you can also roast garlic in the microwave? And if so, how?
In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about roasting garlic in the microwave, including whether or not it is safe to do so, how long you should microwave garlic and step-by-step instructions on how to roast garlic in the microwave.
So, if you are ready to learn how to roast garlic in the microwave, then let’s get started!
Can You Roast Garlic in the Microwave?
Yes, you can roast garlic in the microwave! And while there are some drawbacks to microwaving garlic, it is generally considered to be a perfectly acceptable method.
The biggest advantage of roasting garlic in the microwave is that it is much quicker than other methods. It only takes a few minutes, as opposed to half an hour or so that it would take to roast garlic in the oven.
This can be a huge timesaver, especially if you are short on time or want to get your meal on the table quickly.
Another advantage of microwaving garlic is that it is much less hassle than other methods. There is no need to peel the cloves or worry about them burning in the oven. Simply pop them in the microwave and let them do their thing.
Of course, there are some drawbacks to roasting garlic in the microwave. One is that the result won’t be quite as good as if you had roasted them in the oven. The cloves won’t be as browned or caramelized, which may not be ideal if you are looking for roasted garlic with a bit of bite.
Another downside is that microwave garlic may not have quite the same depth of flavor as oven-roasted garlic. But for most people, these disadvantages are outweighed by the convenience factor.
Here’re the quick steps to roast garlic in the microwave:
- Start by cutting off the top of the garlic head so that the cloves are exposed.
- Place the garlic head on a microwave-safe plate and drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Pour a few drops of water over each garlic head.
- Cover the plate with a microwaveable lid and microwave on 50% power for five minutes.
- Check the garlic cloves by poking them with a fork. If they are not yet soft, microwave them in 1-minute increments until they are cooked through.
- Once the garlic is cooked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before handling.
Is It Safe to Roast Garlic in the Microwave?
Roasting garlic in the microwave is perfectly safe, and it’s a very simple process. However, one downside is that microwaving garlic can kill off the beneficial compounds found in garlic.
Allicin is a key compound in garlic that is responsible for its health benefits. It is also what gives garlic its characteristic pungent smell. When garlic is chopped or crushed, allicin is formed.
However, allicin is heat-sensitive and can be destroyed by cooking at high temperatures. Allicin begins to degrade at around 140 degrees. This is not limited to microwaves, but any cooking method that uses heat.
So, if you are looking to get the most health benefits from garlic, then it is best to eat it raw. Nevertheless, not all people can stomach eating raw garlic, and roasting it in the microwave is a perfectly acceptable alternative.
How Long Should I Microwave Garlic For?
In general, it takes 7 to 10 minutes to roast garlic in the microwave. However, time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the number of cloves you are trying to roast. It is best to start with less time and then add additional minutes as needed.
How To Roast Garlic In The Microwave – Step by Step
Here are the detailed instructions on how to roast garlic in the microwave:
1. Start by cutting off the top of the garlic head so that the cloves are exposed
The first step is to cut off the top of the garlic head. You can do this with a sharp knife. After the top is cut off, peel away the garlic skin so that the cloves are exposed.
2. Place the garlic head on a microwave-safe plate and drizzle with olive oil
Next, place the garlic head on a microwave-safe plate. Then, drizzle some olive oil over the cloves. Be sure to use enough so that each clove is coated. Usually, I use 1 -2 tablespoons of olive oil for 1 garlic head.
3. Sprinkle with salt and pepper
After you add the olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper over the garlic. I usually use about 1/4 teaspoon of each.
4. Pour a few drops of water over each garlic head
The fourth step is to add a little bit of water to the plate. You don’t need to drench the garlic, just add enough so that the cloves are moistened. This helps to create steam, which will prevent the garlic from drying out.
5. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid and microwave on 50% power for five minutes
Now it’s time to microwave the garlic. Cover the plate with a lid (make sure it’s microwave-safe). There are different types of microwaveable lids that you can use such as a plate cover, ceramic saucer, or cling film.
If you use plate covers or saucers, make sure there is a small opening for the steam to escape. If you use cling film, be sure to poke a few holes in it so that the steam can escape. Then, set the microwave to 50% power and cook for five minutes.
6. Check the garlic cloves by poking them with a fork
If they are not yet soft, continue microwaving them in 1-minute increments until they are roasted to your liking.
7. Once the garlic is cooked, allow it to cool for a few minutes
Lastly, allow the garlic to cool for a few minutes before using it.
Why Do You Want To Roast Garlic?
Garlic is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. While some people enjoy the strong taste of raw garlic, others find it easier to digest when it is cooked.
Roasting garlic is a simple way to mellow the flavor while still retaining all of the health benefits.
In addition, roasted garlic keeps well in the fridge and can be used as needed, making it a great way to have fresh garlic on hand at all times.
Whether you’re adding it to pasta or using it as a Spread for bread, roasting garlic is a great way to enjoy the flavor of garlic without the harsh bite.
Write a thorough conclusion summarizing the above
What Can You Do With Roasted Garlic?
Roasted garlic is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor to a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what you can do with it:
Add it to pasta dishes for extra flavor
Roasted garlic is a great way to add depth of flavor to pasta dishes. Simply add a few cloves to your favorite recipe.
Mix it into mashed potatoes
Roasted garlic mashed potatoes are a delicious way to upgrade your side dish game. Simply mix roasted garlic into your mashed potatoes for an extra flavorful dish.
Add it to hummus or other dips
Give your dips an extra boost of flavor by adding roasted garlic. It’s especially good in hummus!
Add it to soup and stews
Roasted garlic can help take your soup or stew from good to great. Simply add a few cloves to your favorite recipe.
Use it as a base for pizza
If you’re looking for a flavorful pizza, look no further than roasted garlic pizza. The cloves make an excellent base for your favorite toppings.
Make garlic bread
Garlic bread is always a crowd pleaser, and roasted garlic takes it to the next level. Spread some on toast or add it to your favorite bread recipe (also read: How to Microwave Garlic Bread for Fast and Easy Meals).
Conclusion
Roasting garlic is a simple way to add flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. It’s also a great way to keep garlic on hand in the fridge. And with your microwave, it’s easier than ever to roast garlic at home.
Whether you’re adding it to pasta or using it as a base for pizza, roasted garlic is a versatile ingredient that can take your dish from good to great.
So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t be afraid to experiment with roasted garlic. You might just be surprised at how much you like it!
