How Do I Cook Garlic Scapes?

How Do I Cook Garlic Scapes? A Culinary Guide

Garlic scapes can be cooked using a variety of methods, including sauteing, grilling, roasting, and pickling, offering a delicious and versatile way to enjoy this seasonal delicacy. They are best when tender and slightly charred.

What Are Garlic Scapes and Why Eat Them?

Garlic scapes are the curly, flowering stalks that hardneck garlic plants produce in late spring and early summer. They are essentially the flower bud of the garlic plant. Farmers remove them to encourage the plant to put more energy into bulb growth, making them a seasonal bonus for food lovers. Scapes have a milder, sweeter garlic flavor than the bulb, making them incredibly versatile in the kitchen.

Health Benefits of Garlic Scapes

Beyond their delicious flavor, garlic scapes boast several health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Like garlic bulbs, scapes contain antioxidants that help protect against cell damage.
• Supports Cardiovascular Health: Compounds in garlic, including those found in scapes, can contribute to healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
• Boosts Immune System: Scapes contain allicin, a compound known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.
• Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic scapes provide vitamins like vitamin C and minerals like manganese.

Preparing Garlic Scapes for Cooking

Before you can cook them, garlic scapes need a little preparation.

• Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the scapes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Trim the Ends: The very tip of the scape, near the flower bud, can sometimes be tough. Trim off about an inch or two. If the scape is very thick, you might also want to remove the bud entirely.
• Slice or Chop: Depending on your recipe, slice the scapes into smaller pieces. They can be chopped finely like garlic cloves or sliced into longer, thin strips.

Cooking Methods for Garlic Scapes

Here are several popular cooking methods for garlic scapes:

• Sautéing: A quick and easy method. Heat oil in a pan, add the chopped scapes, and sauté until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• Grilling: Brush scapes with oil and grill over medium heat until lightly charred and tender, about 3-5 minutes.
• Roasting: Toss scapes with oil and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender and slightly browned, about 15-20 minutes.
• Pickling: Preserves the scapes and creates a tangy condiment. Use a standard pickling brine recipe, adjusting spices to your preference.
• Pesto: A flavorful way to use a lot of scapes at once. Substitute garlic cloves with scapes in your favorite pesto recipe.
• Soup and Stir-fries: Chop scapes and add them to soups, stews, or stir-fries for a subtle garlic flavor.

Garlic Scape Recipe Ideas

Garlic scapes can be incorporated into a multitude of dishes:

• Garlic Scape Pesto Pasta: Toss pasta with garlic scape pesto, cherry tomatoes, and parmesan cheese.
• Grilled Garlic Scape Salad: Grill scapes and toss them with mixed greens, grilled vegetables, and a vinaigrette.
• Garlic Scape Hummus: Blend roasted garlic scapes into homemade hummus for a unique twist.
• Garlic Scape and Potato Frittata: Add sautéed garlic scapes to a potato frittata for a flavorful brunch dish.

Common Mistakes When Cooking with Garlic Scapes

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure the best results:

• Overcooking: Overcooked scapes can become mushy and lose their flavor. Cook them until tender-crisp.
• Using Tough Scapes: Older, thicker scapes can be tough. Choose younger, more tender scapes or trim the ends thoroughly.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Garlic scapes have a milder flavor than garlic cloves, so you may need to adjust your seasoning accordingly.
• Discarding the Flower Bud: The flower bud is also edible! However, if it’s very mature or tough, you may want to discard it.

Storage of Garlic Scapes

Proper storage extends the lifespan of your scapes.

• Refrigerator: Store unwashed scapes in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freezer: Blanch scapes for a minute or two, then freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage.
• Pickling/Pesto: These are preservation methods extending the shelf life significantly.

Availability of Garlic Scapes

Garlic scapes are typically available in the late spring and early summer months (May-June). Check your local farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores. You might also find them at farms that offer CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cooking Garlic Scapes

1. Can I eat garlic scapes raw?

Yes, you can eat garlic scapes raw, but they have a stronger flavor and slightly tougher texture when raw. Chopping them finely and adding them to salads or using them as a garnish is a good way to enjoy them raw. Some people might find them too pungent raw, in which case cooking is recommended.

2. What part of the garlic scape is edible?

The entire garlic scape is edible, including the stalk and the flower bud. However, the flower bud can sometimes be tougher, especially if it’s more mature. Trimming off the bud or removing the tougher lower portion of the stalk might be necessary.

3. How do I know if a garlic scape is too old or tough?

Older garlic scapes tend to be thicker and more fibrous. If the scape feels significantly tougher than others or the flower bud is very large and hard, it may be too old. You can still use it, but you might want to trim off more of the tough end or blanch it for a longer time before cooking.

4. Can I use garlic scapes as a substitute for garlic cloves?

Yes, garlic scapes can be used as a substitute for garlic cloves, but remember that they have a milder, sweeter flavor. You might need to use more scapes than you would garlic cloves to achieve the desired level of garlic flavor.

5. How do I make garlic scape pesto?

To make garlic scape pesto, simply substitute garlic scapes for garlic cloves in your favorite pesto recipe. Combine the scapes with basil, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor and blend until smooth. Adjust the amount of scapes to your taste.

6. What are some good herbs to pair with garlic scapes?

Garlic scapes pair well with a variety of herbs, including basil, parsley, chives, oregano, and thyme. The herb choice depends on the specific dish you’re making.

7. How long do pickled garlic scapes last?

Pickled garlic scapes, when properly processed in sterilized jars, can last for 6-12 months when stored in a cool, dark place. Always follow proper canning procedures to ensure food safety.

8. Can I freeze garlic scapes without blanching them?

While you can freeze garlic scapes without blanching, blanching helps to preserve their color and texture. Blanching also deactivates enzymes that can cause the scapes to deteriorate during freezing.

9. What’s the best oil to use when cooking garlic scapes?

The best oil to use when cooking garlic scapes depends on the cooking method and your personal preference. Olive oil is a good choice for sautéing, grilling, and roasting, while a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil can be used for stir-fries. Extra virgin olive oil adds a richness and fruity taste to sauteing and pestos.

10. Are garlic scapes safe for dogs?

Garlic, in general, can be toxic to dogs in large quantities. While garlic scapes have a milder flavor than the bulb, it’s best to avoid feeding them to your dog to prevent any potential health issues.

11. What is the best way to clean garlic scapes?

The best way to clean garlic scapes is to rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a vegetable brush to scrub them gently if needed.

12. How can I prevent garlic scapes from burning when grilling?

To prevent garlic scapes from burning when grilling, brush them with oil before grilling and cook them over medium heat. Keep a close eye on them and turn them frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

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