How to Smash a Garlic Clove

Once you see how easy (and fun!) it is to smash garlic cloves, you’ll want to add garlic to every recipe you cook! This is a simple technique that’s easy to learn.

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Smashing a garlic clove is so easy, you won’t believe you haven’t used this technique before!

What Do I Need to Smash Garlic?

All you need to smash a garlic clove is some whole garlic cloves, a large-bladed knife (like a chef’s knife), and a flat surface (like a cutting board).

How Do I Peel a Garlic Clove?

Some garlic cloves are very easy to peel, and some are a sticky challenge. You may be able to use your fingers to peel the papery skin away from the smooth surface of the garlic clove. If the papery skin is still stuck tight to the clove, use a small paring knife to peel it.

Do I Need to Peel Garlic to Smash It?

No, you can smash a garlic clove with the peel still on. It is often easier to peel the garlic first, and it is easier to separate the skin from the garlic clove before it is fully smashed.

If you have a garlic clove with a very tightly-stuck skin, you can gently squish it to help peel. Follow the directions below for “How Do I Smash a Garlic Clove?” – just don’t smash it all the way. Gently break the clove, and the papery skin should easily separate from the garlic clove.

How Do I Smash a Garlic Clove?

Place the garlic clove down on your cutting board.

Take your large-bladed knife and place the flat side down on top of the garlic clove. Point the sharp side of the knife away from you.

Firmly press your palm down on the flat side of the knife (keeping your fingers away from the sharp edge). Gradually apply more pressure until the garlic clove flattens.

Short Video for How Do I Smash a Garlic Clove?

Enjoy!

Free Printable for How to Store Fresh Produce

Have you ever wondered where the best place is to store your fresh garlic, apples, or avocados? Use this handy cheat sheet as a reference when you bring fresh produce home from the grocery store.

How to Smash a Garlic Clove