Garlic Flowers

Garlic flowers, also known as garlic scapes, are the flowering shoots of the garlic plant. These shoots typically appear in the late spring or early summer. Here’s a bit more information about them:

Characteristics

• Appearance: The scapes are long, slender, and typically curly, with a flower bud at the top. They have a pale green color.
• Flavor: Garlic scapes have a milder flavor than garlic cloves. They offer a delicate garlic taste with a hint of sweetness, making them a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
• Harvesting: It’s common practice to remove the scapes from garlic plants. This process encourages the plants to focus their energy on growing larger garlic bulbs instead of producing flowers and seeds.

Culinary Uses

Garlic scapes can be used in a plethora of ways in the kitchen:

• Pesto: Blended into a vibrant green pesto, either as a substitute for or in addition to basil.
• Sautéed: Sautéed with other vegetables or meats to add a gentle garlic flavor.
• Pickled: Preserved in vinegar to create tangy, crunchy pickles that can be used as a condiment or garnish.
• Stir-fries: Added to stir-fries for a fresh, garlicky note.
• Salads: Chopped and added raw to salads for a crunchy texture and mild garlic flavor.

Nutritional Value

Garlic scapes are not only flavorful but also nutritious. They are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as various antioxidants. They also contain some of the same beneficial compounds found in garlic cloves, such as allicin, which has been associated with multiple health benefits, including antimicrobial properties.

Availability and Storage

• Availability: Garlic scapes are typically available at farmers’ markets and specialty grocery stores during their growing season (late spring to early summer).
• Storage: They should be stored in the refrigerator and can last for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer-term storage.

Growing Garlic Flowers

For those interested in gardening, growing garlic flowers is straightforward:

1. Planting: Garlic is typically planted in the fall.
2. Maintenance: As the plants grow, water them regularly and keep the beds weed-free.
3. Harvesting: Once the scapes appear, they can be harvested by snapping or cutting them off to encourage bulb growth.

Garlic flowers, or scapes, are a delightful ingredient that can enhance many dishes with their subtle, fresh garlic flavor. They are a seasonal treat worth trying if you have the opportunity!