Why is it a good idea to store garlic in covered containers with holes?
Small countertop containers with lids and holes are ideal for storing garlic, as they protect it from light and moisture.
Believe it or not, garlic needs protection: if stored in the light, it's much more likely to sprout than in the dark. The holes allow for air circulation, because garlic exposed to moisture is at risk of rotting and becoming moldy. While it's safe to eat garlic with new sprouts, you should never eat moldy garlic.
Whole garlic is best stored at room temperature in a dark, well-ventilated place, while peeled or chopped garlic is best stored in the refrigerator.
Garlic keepers help delay sprouting, maintain garlic's firmness, and preserve its flavor. One highly recommended option is the Henry Watson Garlic Keeper, made of terracotta, a material that absorbs moisture and is ideal for humid environments.
It's also a good idea to store garlic away from products that emit ethylene gas, such as bananas, avocados, and apples, because this gas accelerates its spoilage. Mesh vegetable bags, often sold in supermarkets, are also an effective option: they allow air circulation and keep the garlic neat.
If you don't have a container, garlic can be stored in any readily available container, without a lid and away from direct sunlight, or covered with something loose, like kitchen paper or newspaper, to block out light. However, avoid placing anything too heavy or tightly packed on top, as this will prevent air circulation.
