Want to bring about an umami taste to your plain ol’ dishes? Check out this Laba Garlic Recipe, which is perfect for this task!
Laba Garlic Recipe has a reputation for having a rich fermented taste. This has led it to be a staple on the dinner table as multiple dishes can be coupled with to create a flavorful explosion. Read on more to learn how to make it yourself!
Origin of Laba Garlic Recipe
The ancient Chinese came up with the Laba Garlic Recipe. In fact, it originated as part of the Laba Festival, which is also known by its alternate name—the “Eighth Day Festival.” The flavor of this dish was completely altered due to the fermentation process. It became such a hit that it served as a common method of preserving garlic during the winter months. Today, Laba Garlic is famous for its unique umami flavor. It is enjoyed as a condiment, garnish, or ingredient in various Chinese dishes.
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Laba Garlic Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup peeled garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup light soy sauce
- 1/4 cup dark soy sauce
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 star anise pods
- 2 dried red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
Blanch Garlic
Use a pot of boiling water to blanch the peeled garlic cloves for about 1 minute. This is necessary to get the authentic garlic-like flavor. After completion, drain the water and set the garlic cloves aside.
Prepare Marinade
Next, take a saucepan and combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and rice vinegar with water. Then, add brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and star anise pods. To bring up the heat with a spicy flavor, add dried red chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorns, whole cloves, and fennel seeds. Now, patience is key, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the ingredients to work their magic and create a mouthwater dish.
Combine Garlic and Marinade
Now, place the garlic cloves already peeled in a clean glass jar. Now, very cautiously pour the hot marinade over the garlic cloves. Only continue when it cools down, so allow the mixture to cool at room temperature.
Marinate
To get the signature-rich taste, allow the garlic to ferment. To do that, seal the jar and refrigerate the Laba Garlic for at least 24 hours.
Serve and Enjoy
Now the wait is over! After marination, remove the amount from the jar and enjoy its flavors. It can be used as a flavorful condiment or garnish in multiple dishes of your choice.
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Things to Remember While Preparing Laba Garlic Recipe
- Laba Garlic’s flavor intensifies with time, so allow it to ferment for a few days.
- Adjust the amount of dried chili peppers for spiciness.
- Use Laba Garlic in stir-fries, noodle dishes, rice bowls, and more for flavors.
- Store Laba Garlic in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Pro Tip: Reserve the leftover marinade as a seasoning for other dishes. It’s packed with aromatic spices. It can enhance the flavor of soups, stews, and sauces.
As you savor the unique blend of flavors with this Laba Garlic Recipe, take a moment to appreciate the culinary traditions. Incorporate this versatile condiment into your culinary creations.
