Kitchen Tips and Hacks: How to Chop Garlic Like a Pro

Garlic adds incredible depth and aroma to almost any dish, but peeling and chopping it can feel like a hassle—especially when dealing with sticky skins and tiny cloves. Follow these three simple steps to make garlic prep quick, easy, and mess-free.

Step 1: Trim for Easy Peeling

Use the tip of a chef’s knife to slice off the hard root end of each clove. This loosens the skin, making it much easier to remove later.

Step 2: Crush to Release the Skin

Place the garlic clove under the flat side of your knife with the blade facing away from you. Press down firmly with the heel of your palm or fist until the clove slightly crushes. The skin will slip right off, saving you time and frustration.

Step 3: Chop to Your Desired Size

Gather your peeled cloves. Hold your knife by the handle, and place your other hand on top of the blade for control. Rock the knife up and down through the garlic, keeping the tip of the knife on the cutting board. Chop until you reach the size you need—coarse for sautés, fine for sauces, or mince it even further for garlic paste.

Bonus Tips for Garlic Lovers

✔️ Need garlic paste? Sprinkle a little salt on minced garlic and press it with the side of your knife until smooth.
✔️ Hate garlic hands? Rub your fingers on stainless steel (like your knife or sink) under running water to remove the smell.
✔️ Want a milder taste? Soak chopped garlic in water or lemon juice for a few minutes to mellow its sharpness.

Conclusion

With these simple techniques, chopping garlic becomes effortless—no more sticky fingers or struggling with tiny cloves. Master this method, and you’ll be cooking with fresh, flavorful garlic in seconds!