"James Silverton" wrote

>>> LOL, I used to get that all the time at Tonoo Market
>>> (Sasebo). Elderly Mama-sans would sit out in the warm sun
>>> and peel them while tending shop. For 10 yen, you'd get 10
>>> peeled pieces. (10 yen is about 9 cents USD).
>>>
>> I get peeled garlic all the time. I usually get a half pound
>> bag for little over $1, at the local Asian market.
>
> Honestly, how much trouble is it to cut off the top and bottom of a clove
> and then squash it with the same heavy knife?

None really, but in my case (the Sasebo bit above) it was to support the
Mama-sans. When it's only a dime to get a little, it's easy. I dont
normally use more than 10 cloves in a recipe. So, I might get 30yen worth
at a shot which would last a week.