Garlic (1) - Peel the Garlic

Part I: Begin at the end

Looking at the garlic clove, you'll see a tough piece at the end. This is the part that was attached to the bottom of the garlic head before the clove was removed.

Place the garlic clove on the chopping block, and using the tip of your knife, slice off that end.

Part II: Break the skin

Keeping the garlic on the chopping block, use your thumb and index finger to hold the sides of the clove. Hold the knife with the other hand.

Again using the tip of the knife, carefully make a vertical slit from top to bottom in the skin of the garlic.

Part III: Tap into it

Keeping the garlic on the chopping block, tap the clove once or twice with the back of the blade of the knife.

Part IV: Peel it off

The skin should be nicely loosened at this point and can easily be pulled off in one piece. If the skin is still not loose enough, repeat Part III.

Carefully making a slit down the side of the skin may help matters. The garlic is now ready to be crushed, chopped, minced, or used whole. Yes, you've read it correctly: whole garlic! Try it in stews or with grilled vegetables.

from learn2.com