Garlic Scapes
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Garlic Scapes are distinguished by their lengthy, smooth, and solid green stems. Scapes can be long and straight or coiled and bent at various points along the length of the stem. Scapes are free of leaves aside from the spathe at the top of the Scape. Depending upon maturity of the Scape, the spathe can be thin and petite or bulbous and split open. Scapes release a pungent oil and robust peppery flavor when pressed. Its flavor is similar to that of green garlic, only milder with grassy and nutty tones.
Seasons/Availability
Garlic Scapes are available in the late spring and early summer months.
Current Facts
Garlic, botanically classified as Allium sativum, is further classified into two subgroups: softneck and hardneck varieties. Garlic Scapes, also known as garlic Shoots, Spears, and Serpent garlic, typically only form on hardneck garlic varieties. The Scapes are made up of a flower stalk and umbel and occur when garlic is very close to maturity. Garlic Scapes are considered a specialty item for cooking and can be found at select locations when in season.
Nutritional Value
Similar to garlic, Scapes contain antioxidants and sulfur compounds which have been shown to help support cardiovascular and daily overall health.
Applications
Garlic Scapes can be used both as a vegetable and an herb in raw and cooked preparations. They can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, chopped, and added to soups or pureed into sauces. When grilling, try tying the scape in a knot before cooking to make it easier to flip with tongs. Cooking Scapes will mellow the flavor and impart a sweet undertone. They work well in flavor infusion recipes such as compound butter, hummus, and fresh pesto and are ideal for pickling and preserving for future seasons. Pair with other vegetables that are in season in late spring such as artichokes, spring peas, fava beans, morel mushrooms, early summer squash, new potatoes, radishes, and citrus. Scapes also compliment flavors of eggs, olive oil, duck fat, bacon, garlic, pine nuts, white beans, lemon juice, arugula, sea salt, robust cheeses, and fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley. Garlic Scapes will keep up to three weeks when stored in a paper bag or wrapped in paper towel in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Garlic Scapes have long been used as a traditional spring vegetable in Middle Eastern, Asian, and Southern and Eastern European cuisines. In Hong Kong, garlic Scape and pork fried rice is a popular dish as well as simply frying the scapes for a crunchy snack. Scapes are also prevalent in Jewish culture. The Scape of garlic is also known in Yiddish as Kantshekeh or Whip, a nod to its shape and form.
Geography/History
As a part of the garlic plant, garlic Scapes have been around as long as garlic has existed. Scapes can be harvested wherever hardneck garlic is grown and is widely available in Asia, Europe, and the United States at farmers markets and specialty grocers.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Garlic Scapes. One
is easiest, three is harder.
