The dramatic rise in the prices of garlic can have some benefits. We can learn how to cook without it, explore the use of other vegetables, beans and nuts, and utilize cheaper substitutes:
Curry patta is a flavorful spice that can be used in fried rice and curry dishes. It spices up burgers and sautéed vegetables. The leaves and purplish fruits are harvested from the curry patta tree. It controls diabetes, decreases bad cholesterol, and protects the gastrointestinal tract and liver.
Oregano is often used for pasta, but this healing herb is also used to add flavor to vegetarian “beanuguan,” fried rice, soup and tempura. Oregano tea alleviates coughing because it helps remove mucous and phlegm.
Lemongrass can be added to coconut milk dishes and salads, or you can use it to sauté vegetables for its citrus flavor.
Instead of using garlic, a friend uses cabbage. She cuts it in strips and fries it until it’s slightly brown.
Other garlic substitutes include leeks, spring onions and chives.
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