When cooking with garlic, it’s common to see recipes call for garlic by the clove rather than a specific measured amount. So how many teaspoons of minced garlic equal 6 cloves? Let’s take a look at the conversion.
Quick Answer
As a general rule of thumb:
- 1 medium clove of garlic = 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- So 6 cloves of garlic = 6 teaspoons of minced garlic
However, garlic cloves can vary quite a bit in size. Giant garlic cloves may be 2-3 times larger than small cloves. So for accuracy, you’ll want to mince the cloves and measure them.
Garlic Basics
First, let’s start with some background on garlic itself. The garlic plant (Allium sativum) grows bulbs underground that are made up of multiple cloves. Each bulb typically contains around 10-20 cloves.
Garlic cloves are the individual segmented pieces that make up the bulb. They are encased in a thin white papery skin that should be removed before cooking with them.
Cloves can range quite a bit in size, anywhere from 1/2 inch to over 1 inch long. On average though, most standard sized garlic cloves are around 3/4 to 1 inch long.
Garlic Conversion
So how does garlic clove size translate to teaspoons of minced garlic?
Here are some general guidelines:
- 1 small garlic clove (1/2 inch) = 1/2 teaspoon minced
- 1 medium garlic clove (3/4 inch) = 1 teaspoon minced
- 1 large garlic clove (1 inch) = 2 teaspoons minced
- 1 extra large garlic clove (1 1/4 inch+) = 2 1/2 to 3 teaspoons minced
Based on this, 6 average medium-sized garlic cloves would be:
- 6 medium cloves x 1 teaspoon = 6 teaspoons of minced garlic
However, garlic bulb and clove size can vary quite a bit based on the specific variety and growing conditions. So for accuracy, it’s best to mince up the cloves and measure them directly.
Measuring Minced Garlic
To measure minced garlic:
- Peel cloves by removing the outer skin
- Chop or mince the garlic thoroughly. You can use a garlic press or finely mince with a knife.
- Measure out the minced garlic in teaspoons
In general, 6 average sized cloves should yield around 5 1/2 to 6 teaspoons of minced garlic. But again, sizes vary quite a bit, so measuring is the most accurate method.
When Precision Matters
For most savory cooking, precision with garlic is not super critical. But if you’re following a tested recipe or cooking for someone with a garlic sensitivity, measuring may be more important.
Cases when you’ll want to be more precise with garlic include:
- Following a baked good or bread recipe that relies on specific flavor balancing
- Cooking for someone with a garlic allergy or sensitivity
- Following a recipe the first time before making adjustments
So in those cases, take the extra time to mince and measure the garlic by the teaspoon to get an accurate amount.
Garlic Substitutions
If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, here are some substitutions:
- 1 clove garlic = 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 clove garlic = 1/2 teaspoon garlic flakes or granulated garlic
- 1 clove garlic = 1 teaspoon prepared minced garlic or jarred garlic
Garlic powder is made from dehydrated garlic, so it has a very concentrated flavor. Go lightly when substituting, as too much garlic powder can make a dish taste unpleasantly strong.
Garlic flakes rehydrate better than powder and more closely mimic the flavor of fresh garlic. Granulated garlic has a texture between powder and flakes.
Prepared minced garlic in jars is par-cooked to stabilize it. It lacks the full flavor and aroma of fresh but works well in a pinch. Just be aware that jarred products lose flavor over time.
Storing Garlic
To get the most out of your garlic:
- Store bulbs in a cool, dark place with plenty of air circulation. Do not refrigerate.
- Use fresh garlic within a few weeks of purchase for optimal flavor.
- Wrap leftover cloves or minced garlic tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freeze minced garlic in oil or water for several months.
And avoid storing at room temperature or in oil at room temperature, as this creates a botulism risk.
Cooking with Garlic
Garlic is a versatile ingredient. Here are some tips for getting the most out of its flavor:
- Sautéing: Cook for 1-2 minutes to mellow raw garlic’s bite and bring out nutty, sweet notes.
- Roasting: Roast whole cloves or bulbs to caramelize, sweeten, and tame garlic’s sharpness.
- Raw: Use raw garlic sparingly for an intense, pungent bite.
- Infusing oil: Steep crushed or sliced garlic in oil for a mellow, aromatic garlic oil.
Sauteing, roasting, and infusing are great ways to enjoy the flavor of garlic without harsh, raw notes. And seasoning with raw garlic at the end adds a nice punch.
Health Benefits
Garlic offers some great health benefits. It contains manganese, vitamin C, vitamin B6, selenium and fiber. As well as beneficial plant compounds like allicin.
Research shows garlic has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. And studies suggest it may boost the immune system and have protective effects against cardiovascular disease by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.
However, consult your doctor before using garlic medicinally or in supplement form, as it can interact with some medications. Overall though, enjoying garlic regularly in your savory cooking is a tasty way to reap the benefits.
Garlic Allergies
While uncommon, garlic allergies do exist and symptoms range from mild to severe. Reactions may include:
- Rash or itchy skin
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Asthma flare-ups
- Anaphylaxis
Those with a garlic allergy should avoid consuming it. And let any restaurants or hosts know of the allergy to prevent accidental exposure.
Conclusion
So in summary:
- On average, 6 cloves of garlic = 6 teaspoons minced
- For accuracy, mince cloves and measure directly in teaspoons
- Size varies, so measuring is the best way to be precise
- Substitute 1 clove garlic for 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic flakes, or 1 teaspoon prepared minced garlic
Knowing the garlic conversions allows you to translate recipes and substitute when needed. Enjoy garlic’s incredible flavor and health benefits, while being mindful of any garlic allergies.
And for great ways to cook with garlic, check out our recipes using this aromatic ingredient. Garlic takes savory dishes to the next level!
