Delicious Ways to Use Black Garlic in Cooking

Black garlic has become a popular ingredient in many kitchens for its unique flavor and versatility. Whether you're looking to add a rich, savory touch to a classic pasta dish or want to experiment with new flavors, black garlic can elevate any meal. In today's post, we will explore the uses of black garlic, focusing on a cozy pasta with sausage and cream sauce recipe. We will also discuss how to use black garlic in other creative dishes.

Pasta with Sausage and Cream Sauce

The love for black garlic is shared by many, including my husband and me. This creamy pasta dish is always a hit and is enjoyed by everyone who tries it. Let's take a look at the recipe for this dish:

Ingredients

1 lb ground sausage 1 small chopped onion 2 tbsp butter 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp nutmeg 2 tsp black garlic paste 1 cup heavy whipping cream 3-4 cloves garlic, grated 1 lb pasta (tubular pasta works best; penne, garganelli, or rigatoni would all work) 1 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste) freshly grated Parmesan for the table

Instructions

Heat a small saucepan over medium heat. Combine 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp vegetable oil with 1 small chopped onion. Cook until the onion is lightly golden. Add 1 lb ground sausage to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the meat is browned. Add 2 tsp black garlic paste and 3-4 cloves of grated garlic. Cook and stir until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper and 1 tsp red pepper flakes. Stir well. Add 1 cup of heavy cream and bring the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cream thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Meanwhile, cook and drain the pasta of your choice. Toss the pasta with the sauce. Once the sauce is well combined, turn off the heat and stir in 1 tbsp of cold butter until it is fully incorporated. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Exploring Black Garlic in Other Recipes

While the pasta dish is delicious, there are many other creative ways to use black garlic. Here are a few ideas for you to try:

Aioli with Black Garlic

Aioli, a garlic-based mayonnaise paste, can be made even more flavorful with the addition of black garlic. The sweet and slightly sweet flavor of black garlic pairs excellently with the tangy and creamy consistency of aioli. Here's a simple recipe:

2 cloves of black garlic, minced 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1-2 teaspoons hot water 1-2 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil (such as sunflower or vegetable) Place the minced black garlic in a mortar and pestle. Crush it, then mix in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot water. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth. Gradually add the neutral-flavored oil, stirring continuously to emulsify the mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Store the aioli in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to a week.

Black Garlic and Pasta

Instead of using black garlic paste, you can use whole black garlic cloves. The cloves can be sautéed with the pasta and featured as a garnish for a unique and flavorful touch:

4-5 whole black garlic cloves, peeled and halved 1 lb pasta (tubular pasta works best; penne, garganelli, or rigatoni would all work) Grated Parmesan cheese for serving Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water. Meanwhile, heat a large pan over medium heat. Add the halved black garlic cloves and cook until they are slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. Drain the pasta and place it in the pan with the black garlic. Toss with reserved pasta water to coat. Add 1 tablespoon of cold butter and mix until the butter is incorporated. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Explore the unique flavor and versatility of black garlic in your cooking. From savory pasta dishes to creamy aiolis, black garlic can add a touch of elegance and depth to any recipe. Give these ideas a try and enjoy the rich and comforting flavors it brings to your meals!