The long green shoots that grow from the garlic bulb are called garlic scapes.
Garlic Scapes: More Than Just a Green Part
Garlic scapes are not just a visual identifier; they are a flavorful ingredient in their own right. Here’s a breakdown of what makes them special:
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Flavor Profile: Garlic scapes possess a garlicky flavor, but it’s generally milder compared to the cloves found in the bulb. This subtle flavor makes them versatile for various culinary applications.
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Culinary Uses: According to the provided reference, garlic scapes can be used in several ways:
- Pestos: They can form the base of flavorful pestos.
- Quiches: They make a great addition to savory quiches.
- Sautéed: They are delicious simply sautéed with a bit of salt.
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Harvest Time: Garlic scapes are harvested before the garlic bulb is fully mature. This allows the plant to redirect its energy to the bulb, resulting in larger and healthier cloves.
Key Takeaways
Garlic scapes are the green shoots of the garlic plant and offer a milder garlicky flavor that's perfect for cooking. They are not just an incidental part of the plant but a culinary ingredient worth exploring.
