Tips to Keep Garlic and Shallots Fresh for a Long Time

Garlic and shallots are essential ingredients in Vietnamese cuisine, often used to enhance the aroma and flavor of countless dishes. Many home cooks like to buy them in bulk and store them for gradual use. Although these ingredients are not particularly difficult to preserve, knowing the right storage methods can help them stay fresh much longer and retain their distinct fragrance.

How to Store Garlic Properly

1. Choose the Right Garlic

To make your garlic last longer, start by selecting firm, plump bulbs that feel heavy for their size. Avoid bulbs with shriveled cloves, soft spots, or signs of mold and insect damage. The outer skin should be dry, papery, and slightly white — not broken or discolored.

If the cloves appear yellow or gray instead of bright white, they may already be old and will lack that strong, aromatic flavor that fresh garlic offers. Selecting high-quality garlic at the start is the key to keeping it flavorful over time.

2. Use the Right Storage Containers

Mesh bags are ideal for storing garlic. They allow air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup — the main cause of mold. You can also use brown paper bags with small ventilation holes, which protect garlic from direct light while still keeping it dry and airy.

Pro tip: Avoid using plastic bags or sealed containers. These trap moisture, making the garlic sprout or rot faster.

3. Choose a Suitable Storage Location

Place your garlic in a dry, well-ventilated, and cool area, such as a pantry or a kitchen cabinet away from heat sources. Proper airflow helps prevent bacteria and mold from forming, while dryness keeps the cloves firm and aromatic.

Keep in mind that humidity or direct sunlight can make garlic lose its flavor and develop a bitter taste over time. If stored correctly, garlic can stay fresh for several months.

How to Store Shallots (Dried Onions) Effectively

1. Pick Good-Quality Shallots

Choose shallots that are firm, heavy, and evenly sized with dry, intact skins. Avoid bulbs with sprouts, soft spots, or sunken areas near the stem — these are signs of aging or decay. The outer skin should be dry and easy to peel, which indicates the shallot has been properly cured and will last longer.

2. Store in Mesh Bags, Paper Bags, or Baskets

Just like garlic, shallots need airflow. Use mesh or paper bags, or even an open basket to keep them ventilated and dry. Do not use plastic bags or sealed containers, as these trap moisture and cause the shallots to rot or grow mold.

Place the basket or bag in a cool, well-ventilated area in your kitchen. Avoid places with extreme temperatures — below 10°C (50°F) or above 30°C (86°F). Regularly check your shallots and remove any that show signs of spoilage, softness, or discoloration to prevent mold from spreading to the rest.

3. Special Tips for Peeled or Chopped Shallots

Whole, unpeeled shallots don’t require refrigeration. However, once peeled or chopped, they should be kept in the refrigerator to stay fresh. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or seal them in a zip-lock bag before placing them in the fridge.

Stored this way, shallots can remain fresh for 2 to 3 days without losing their flavor or texture. For longer preservation, you can also freeze chopped shallots in an airtight container — they’ll stay good for several weeks and are ready to use right out of the freezer.

Extra Tips for Longer Storage

• Keep garlic and shallots away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture.

• Never store them near potatoes — both release gases and moisture that make each other spoil faster.

• If you live in a humid climate, consider adding a small packet of food-safe silica gel or rice grains in the storage container to absorb excess moisture.

With these simple yet effective tips, your garlic and shallots will remain flavorful, aromatic, and ready to use whenever you cook. Proper storage not only saves money but also ensures your dishes always have that rich, authentic taste that fresh ingredients bring.