Garlic scapes, the curly green shoots from garlic plants, are a culinary treasure often overlooked. Bursting with flavour and versatility, these vibrant stalks offer a unique twist to your dishes. Let’s delve into the world of garlic scapes and explore their numerous culinary applications.
What are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the long, slender, curly shoots that sprout from the garlic bulb. These tender stems grow above ground and appear in late spring or early summer. They are harvested before they flower, ensuring a milder flavour compared to mature garlic cloves. Garlic scapes offer a fresh, green taste with a hint of garlic essence. With their unique texture and captivating aroma, they have become increasingly popular among chefs and food enthusiasts alike.
Culinary Uses
The culinary potential of garlic scapes is genuinely remarkable. Their mild garlicky flavour makes them an excellent substitute for garlic cloves in various recipes. Finely chop and sauté them to create a fragrant base for stir-fries, soups, or pasta dishes. Grilling or roasting garlic scapes brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your grilled vegetables or meat. For a delightful condiment, blend garlic scapes with olive oil, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese to make a delectable scape pesto.
Flavorful Pairings
Garlic scapes pair exceptionally well with a range of ingredients, enhancing the overall taste of your dishes. Combine them with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley to create a vibrant herb-infused oil or dressing. Their crisp texture adds a delightful crunch to salads when thinly sliced. For a burst of flavour, incorporate garlic scapes into dips, salsas, or marinades. Their versatility extends to seafood, where they complement fish and shrimp dishes beautifully. Experiment with different combinations and let the subtle garlicky notes of the scapes elevate your culinary creations.
Preserving Garlic Scapes
To make the most of garlic scapes, it’s essential to know how to preserve their freshness. Store unwashed scapes in a plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. They can stay fresh for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can chop them into smaller pieces and freeze them in an airtight container. Frozen garlic scapes are perfect for future use in soups, stews, or sauces. Another preservation method is pickling, which adds a tangy twist to the scapes. Simply submerge them in vinegar, salt, and spices, and let them sit for a few weeks before enjoying the pickled delight.
Garlic scapes are a hidden gem in the culinary world, offering a fresh and versatile alternative to garlic cloves. From stir-fries to condiments, their unique flavour and texture can transform any dish. So, don’t overlook these curly wonders the next time you encounter them – embrace the magic of garlic scapes and elevate your cooking to new heights!
Grilled Garlic Scapes with Lemon and Parmesan
Ingredients
- 1 bunch garlic scapes
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 medium lemon juiced
- 1 tbsp. Parmesan cheese grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Trim the ends of the garlic scapes and place them in a bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the scapes and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the scapes on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until lightly charred and tender.
- Remove from the grill and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve as a flavorful side dish or appetizer.
