Yes, specific parts of the garlic stem are absolutely edible and quite delicious!
When people refer to edible "garlic stems," they are typically talking about garlic scapes. These are the tender, coiled flower stalks that emerge from hardneck varieties of garlic plants in late spring or early summer. Gardeners often snap or cut them off to encourage the plant to put more energy into developing a larger bulb underground.
The Edibility of Garlic Scapes
Happily though, the scapes don't go to waste. Are garlic scapes edible? These tender green stalks are both edible and delicious, rather like tender, young asparagus with a delicious hint of garlic flavour. As the reference highlights, scapes offer a delightful culinary experience.
What Makes Garlic Scapes Edible and Tasty?
- Texture: Garlic scapes have a firm yet tender texture, similar to asparagus or green beans. They are not tough or fibrous like the main stalk of many other plants.
- Flavor: They possess a milder, sweeter garlic flavor than the cloves themselves, often described as fresh and slightly grassy. The reference notes their "delicious hint of garlic flavour" combined with an asparagus-like quality.
- Nutrients: Like other green vegetables, scapes contain vitamins and antioxidants.
Culinary Uses for Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are versatile in the kitchen. They can be used raw or cooked in numerous dishes:
- Pesto: A popular use is substituting scapes for some or all of the basil in pesto for a garlicky twist.
- Stir-fries: Chop and add to stir-fries for flavor and texture.
- Grilled or Roasted: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper and grill or roast until tender.
- Soups and Sauces: Finely chop and add to impart a gentle garlic flavor.
- Pickled: Scapes can be pickled for a tangy, crunchy snack.
In summary, while you wouldn't eat the entire fibrous stem of every garlic variety, the curly green stalks known as scapes that grow from hardneck garlic are highly edible and prized for their unique flavor and texture.
