What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the curly, green flower stalks that grow from hardneck garlic plants in late spring to early summer. If left unharvested, they eventually produce a flower and seeds, but removing them directs energy back into bulb growth, leading to larger garlic heads.
- Appearance: Long, slender, and curly, with a pointed bud at the tip.
- Flavor: Mild, slightly sweet, and garlicky, with a hint of onion or chive.
- Texture: Crisp and tender when young, similar to asparagus or green beans.
- Availability: Harvested in late spring to early summer, before the stalks become tough.
How to Use Garlic Scapes in Cooking
- Raw in Salads & Pestos:
- Chop finely and toss into salads for a fresh, mild garlic flavor.
- Blend into pesto with basil, nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil for a unique twist.
- Grilled or Roasted:
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill or roast until tender and slightly charred.
- Pairs well with meats, fish, or roasted vegetables.
- Sauteed & Stir-Fried:
- Slice and sauté in butter or oil for an easy side dish.
- Add to stir-fries, omelets, or scrambled eggs for extra flavor.
- Pickled Garlic Scapes:
- Preserve them in vinegar, salt, and spices for a crunchy, tangy treat.
- Use as a garnish, in sandwiches, or on charcuterie boards.
- Soups & Sauces:
- Chop and stir into soups, stews, or broths for a subtle garlic kick.
- Blend into sauces, dips, or aioli for a creamy, garlicky spread.
- Garlic Scape Butter:
- Finely mince and mix into softened butter with salt and herbs.
- Spread on bread, melt over steaks, or use to flavor vegetables.
- Pasta & Rice Dishes:
- Toss with pasta, olive oil, Parmesan, and lemon for a simple yet flavorful dish.
- Stir into risottos or fried rice for a garlicky boost.
- Fermented or Dehydrated:
- Ferment in brine for a probiotic-rich, tangy condiment.
- Dehydrate and grind into a powder to use as a seasoning.
Garlic scapes are a seasonal delicacy with endless culinary possibilities.
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