Yes, garlic can and often does sprout. This is a perfectly normal occurrence, and the sprouts are generally safe to eat.
Understanding Garlic Sprouts
Sprouts emerging from a garlic clove are not a sign of spoilage; instead, they represent the beginning of a new garlic plant. According to Cook's Illustrated, these tender green shoots have a mild, grassy flavor and are not bitter at all. Several sources confirm that sprouted garlic is safe to consume. Bon Appétit even notes that properly stored garlic can last for several weeks, and sprouting doesn't automatically mean it's bad.
What to Expect from Sprouted Garlic
- Appearance: You'll notice bright green or yellow shoots emerging from the clove.
- Flavor: The flavor might be milder than unsprouted garlic, sometimes described as grassy. Some sources mention a harsher, hotter flavor, depending on the extent of sprouting.
- Safety: As long as the garlic isn't moldy, it's safe to eat. Discard any cloves showing signs of mold or significant decay.
Using Sprouted Garlic
- Culinary Uses: Sprouted garlic can be used in cooking just like regular garlic, though its milder flavor might require using more. Some recipes even specifically call for using only the sprouts.
- Planting: The sprouts are viable for planting, offering a simple way to grow new garlic plants. Resources like Practical Self Reliance provide detailed instructions on how to plant sprouted garlic.
Distinguishing Sprouts from Spoilage
It's crucial to distinguish sprouting from spoilage. Sprouting is characterized by the emergence of green shoots; spoilage manifests as discoloration, soft texture, unpleasant odors, and mold. If you see any of these signs of spoilage, discard the garlic.
