What is Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun? Glossary | Benefits, Uses, Recipes with Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun | Viewed 22504 times
Also known as
Himalayan garlic, Jammu garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun

What is Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun?

Kashmiri garlic is a variety of garlic which is an individual clove of garlic. They belong to the same family of Allium sativum. It usually grows at high altitude. It is smaller in size than the regular garlic. It is round in shape and is pointed at one end. It has golden-brown husk with a white garlic inside. The compound allicin in it gives the garlic its pungent smell. It is available year round though its harvesting season is spring.

How to select Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun

1. It is available lose at some ayurvedic shops.
2. Select garlic cloves with their husk on.
3. The garlic should look uniform in size and colour.
4. It usually has a longer shelf life than the regular garlic. However check for mould if any.
5. Also check that the garlic should not be damaged or bruised.
6. It is also available in packaged form at select stores. While buying such packaged garlic, check its expiry dat if any.

Culinary Uses of Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun in Indian Cooking

Kashmiri garlic can be crushed slightly with hands, deskinned and eaten as it is. Alternatively, you can add to recipes of your choice.

How to store Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun

Kashmiri garlic can be stored in an air-tight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

Health benefits of Kashmiri garlic, Himalayan garlic, single clove garlic, ek pothi lahsun

Kashmiri garlic, like the regular garlic, is also rich in compound allicin. This compound has antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties both. This garlic is most known for cardiac health. It strengthens the cardiovascular system by preventing clot formation and managing blood cholesterol levels. Because it helps to relax the muscles, it can benefit to manage high blood pressure too. The allicin is also considered favourable for maintaining intestinal health. This same compound may also help in managing blood sugar levels and thus suitable for diabetics. This mountain garlic is considered good to strengthen the immune system and thus is beneficial for people suffering from cold and cough. The sulphur compound in this garlic may also help fight chronic disease like cancer. 

Peeled kashmiri garlic

Crush the Kashmiri garlic lightly with your hands. Deskin it and discard the skin. Use as required.