Can You Eat the Whole Garlic Scape? Exploring the Culinary Potential
Yes, you can eat the whole garlic scape! In fact, every part of the garlic scape, from the bud to the stem, is perfectly edible and offers a unique, milder garlic flavor. However, some parts may require slightly different preparation methods to optimize their taste and texture.
What is a Garlic Scape?
Garlic scapes are the curly, flowering stalks that grow from hardneck garlic plants in late spring or early summer. They’re essentially the plant’s attempt to reproduce sexually, creating a seed head. However, many garlic farmers remove them to redirect the plant’s energy back into growing a larger, more flavorful bulb underground. This “waste” is actually a delicious and versatile ingredient. Think of it as an early-season gift from the garden.
The Nutritional and Culinary Benefits of Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes share many of the health benefits of garlic cloves, though often in slightly lower concentrations. They are a good source of:
- Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports immune function.
- Allicin: A compound associated with cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory properties (though less concentrated than in the bulb).
- Fiber: Contributes to healthy digestion.
- Manganese: Important for bone health and metabolism.
Culinary advantages include:
- Milder Garlic Flavor: Offers a less pungent, more nuanced garlic taste than cloves, making them ideal for dishes where raw garlic would be overpowering.
- Versatility: Can be used raw, cooked, pickled, or preserved in a variety of ways.
- Seasonal Availability: Provides a unique, locally sourced ingredient during a limited time frame.
Preparing and Cooking with Garlic Scapes
Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare and cook different parts of the scape:
- The Bud: The flower bud at the end of the scape can be eaten raw or cooked. It has a slightly stronger flavor than the stem.
- The Stem: This is the most commonly used part of the scape. It’s tender when young and becomes tougher as it matures.
- Remove any tough, fibrous outer layers, especially on older scapes.
- Chop the stem into smaller pieces for even cooking.
- Methods: Scapes can be:
- Grilled: Creates a smoky, charred flavor.
- Sautéed: Adds a delicate garlic flavor to stir-fries and other dishes.
- Roasted: Brings out the sweetness of the scapes.
- Pickled: Preserves the scapes and adds a tangy flavor.
- Used raw: In salads, pesto, or as a garnish.
Common Mistakes When Using Garlic Scapes
- Using Overly Mature Scapes: Older scapes can be tough and fibrous. Look for scapes that are still relatively young and tender. If they are too mature, consider pureeing them or using them in stocks.
- Not Removing the Tough Outer Layer: Peeling off the outer layer, especially near the base of the scape, can significantly improve the texture.
- Overcooking: Overcooked scapes can become mushy. Cook them until they are tender-crisp.
- Assuming the Flavor is Weak: While milder than garlic cloves, scapes still pack a flavor punch. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
- Discarding the Bud: The bud is perfectly edible and adds a concentrated burst of garlic flavor.
Recipes to Showcase Garlic Scapes
Here are some popular ways to use garlic scapes:
- Garlic Scape Pesto: A vibrant and flavorful alternative to traditional basil pesto.
- Grilled Garlic Scapes: A simple and delicious appetizer.
- Pickled Garlic Scapes: A tangy and crunchy condiment.
- Garlic Scape Soup: A creamy and flavorful soup.
- Garlic Scape Stir-Fry: Adds a delicate garlic flavor to any stir-fry.
Storing Garlic Scapes
- Refrigerate: Store scapes in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to two weeks.
- Freeze: For longer storage, blanch the scapes for a minute or two, then freeze them in a freezer bag. This helps to preserve their flavor and texture.
- Pickle: Pickling is another great way to preserve scapes for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Garlic Scapes
Are garlic scapes safe to eat raw?
Yes, garlic scapes are perfectly safe to eat raw. However, like raw garlic, some people may find the flavor a bit strong. If you are sensitive to raw garlic, start with a small amount.
Do garlic scapes smell as strong as garlic bulbs?
While garlic scapes have a distinct garlic aroma, it is typically less pungent than the smell of garlic bulbs. The aroma is often described as fresher and grassier.
How do I know if my garlic scapes are too old to eat?
Look for signs of toughness, such as a very thick stem or a woody texture. The color might be duller as well. Taste a small piece – if it’s excessively chewy or bitter, it’s probably past its prime.
Can I use garlic scapes if I have a garlic allergy?
Unfortunately, if you have a true garlic allergy, you should avoid garlic scapes as well. They contain the same compounds that trigger allergic reactions in garlic.
What’s the best way to clean garlic scapes?
Simply rinse the scapes under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Are garlic scapes the same as green garlic?
No, garlic scapes are not the same as green garlic. Green garlic is simply young garlic that hasn’t formed a bulb yet, while scapes are the flowering stalks of hardneck garlic.
How do I make garlic scape pesto?
To make garlic scape pesto, combine chopped garlic scapes, nuts (like walnuts or pine nuts), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until smooth, adjusting the ingredients to taste.
Can I use garlic scapes in place of garlic cloves in recipes?
Yes, you can substitute garlic scapes for garlic cloves in most recipes. Start with a larger quantity of scapes than you would use cloves, as the flavor is milder. About 1-2 scapes can often replace 1 clove.
What kind of garlic produces scapes?
Only hardneck garlic varieties produce scapes. Softneck garlic, which is commonly found in grocery stores, does not.
Where can I buy garlic scapes?
Garlic scapes are typically available at farmers’ markets and some specialty grocery stores in late spring or early summer. You may also find them at local farms that grow hardneck garlic.
Can I grow my own garlic scapes?
Yes! Plant hardneck garlic in the fall, and you’ll be rewarded with garlic scapes the following spring or early summer. Harvest the scapes when they curl for the best flavor and bulb development.
Are garlic scapes good for you?
Yes, garlic scapes are good for you. They contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health and well-being. While the concentration of allicin may be lower than in the garlic bulb, they still offer beneficial properties.