Plaiting garlic bulbs is essentially braiding their stalks together to create a decorative and practical way to store them. Here's how to do it:
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Preparation is Key: Harvest your garlic when the tops are mostly brown but still pliable. Allow the bulbs to dry for a week or two, either hanging them in a well-ventilated, dry place or laying them on screens. Don't remove the stalks or roots, as these are essential for plaiting and storage.
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Gather Your Supplies: You'll need your dried garlic bulbs (ideally with at least 12-15 inches of stalk), twine (optional, for reinforcement), and scissors.
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Starting the Plait: Select three garlic bulbs with stalks of similar length. These will form the base of your plait.
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The Basic Braid:
- Hold the three bulbs together at the top, just below the bulbs themselves. Treat the stalks as if you were braiding hair.
- Cross the right stalk over the middle stalk.
- Cross the left stalk over the new middle stalk.
- Continue this pattern – right over middle, left over middle – for a few passes to secure the base of the plait.
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Adding More Garlic: This is where the plait becomes a garlic braid.
- Before crossing a stalk, place a new garlic bulb next to the central bulb on that side, with its stalk running alongside the stalk you're about to cross. The bulb should be facing outwards.
- Braid this new stalk together with the existing stalk. This incorporates the new bulb into the plait.
- Repeat this process, alternating sides, adding new garlic bulbs each time before you cross the outer stalks over the middle. Aim for even spacing and a tight plait. Ensure each new bulb's stalk is well integrated into the braid.
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Finishing the Plait: Once you've added all your garlic or reached your desired length, continue braiding the remaining stalks for a few inches. Tie off the end securely with twine.
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Hanging: Create a loop with twine at the top of the plait for easy hanging. Store your garlic braid in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place.
Tips for Success:
- Pliability: The stalks must be pliable. If they become too dry and brittle, lightly dampen them with water.
- Even Distribution: Strive for even spacing of the bulbs to create an aesthetically pleasing and balanced plait.
- Tightness: Keep the plait tight to prevent the garlic from loosening over time.
- Storage: Proper storage is crucial for long-term preservation. Avoid dampness and humidity.
- Practice: It may take a few tries to get the hang of it. Don't be discouraged!
