Yes, you can use a garlic press without peeling, but choose a press with a large basket and larger holes.
- The Zyliss Susi 3 and OXO Good Grips are top picks for unpeeled garlic based on specs and owner reviews.
- Pressing unpeeled cloves saves time but may leave skin bits and put more strain on the press.
How Does a Garlic Press Work?
A garlic press crushes cloves by forcing them through small holes. The basket holds the clove, and the plunger applies pressure. Most presses work best with peeled cloves because skin can clog the holes. However, some designs are more forgiving. The key is the size of the basket and the shape of the holes. Wider baskets accept unpeeled cloves more easily. Larger holes allow skin to pass through without clogging.
Which Garlic Presses Handle Unpeeled Cloves Best?
We compared several popular models based on specifications and owner reports. The Zyliss Susi 3 Garlic Press has a large, deep basket that fits unpeeled cloves. Its holes are slightly larger, reducing clogging. The OXO Good Grips Garlic Press also works well, thanks to its soft handles and sturdy construction. Both are dishwasher safe, which simplifies cleanup. In contrast, smaller presses like the Kuhn Rikon Easy Press may struggle with unpeeled cloves. They require more force and often leave skin behind.
How to Use a Garlic Press Without Peeling
Place the unpeeled clove in the basket with the flat side down. Squeeze firmly, using both hands if needed. You might need to press twice to extract all the garlic. After pressing, remove any skin that remains in the basket. Some presses come with a cleaning tool to poke out stuck bits. For best results, use fresh, firm cloves. Soft or sprouting cloves may crush unevenly.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Pressing Unpeeled Garlic?
The main advantage is saving time. You skip the peeling step, which can be tedious. However, you may get a slightly different texture. Skin fragments can end up in your dish if the holes are too large. Pressing unpeeled cloves also puts more strain on the press. Over time, this could bend or break cheaper models. Owners of high-end presses report fewer issues. If you cook often, a sturdy press is worth the investment.
Which Garlic Press Should You Buy for Unpeeled Garlic?
For occasional use, a budget press like the KitchenAid Gourmet Garlic Press can handle unpeeled cloves with some effort. For daily use, the Zyliss Susi 3 is a reliable choice. It has a comfortable grip and a large capacity. The OXO Good Grips is also excellent, with a non-slip handle and easy cleaning. Avoid presses with very fine holes, as they clog quickly. Look for models with a removable basket for simple cleanup.