Garlic scapes are one of those delightful seasonal ingredients that can transform your cooking with their fresh, garlicky flavor and crisp texture. If you’ve ever wondered, how do I cook garlic scapes? – you’re in the right place. This article will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare garlic scapes perfectly, plus some tasty recipe ideas to inspire your kitchen adventures.
What Are Garlic Scapes?
Garlic scapes are the tender, curly green shoots that grow from hardneck garlic plants. They appear in late spring or early summer and are typically harvested to encourage the garlic bulb underground to grow bigger. These scapes have a mild garlic flavor, a bit like a cross between garlic cloves, scallions, and chives, with a fresh, slightly sweet taste and a crunchy texture.
They’re not commonly found in grocery stores but are a prized find at farmers markets or through CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) boxes during their short season.
How to Prepare Garlic Scapes for Cooking
Before cooking, you’ll want to prepare your garlic scapes properly:
– Trim the ends and flower buds: The flower bud at the tip can be tougher and less pleasant to eat, so many cooks remove it. Also, cut off any dry or tough ends.
– Check for fibrous stems: If the bottom part of the scape feels tough or stringy, snap it off like you would asparagus.
– Wash thoroughly: Rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
How Do I Cook Garlic Scapes? Easy Methods to Try
1. Sautéed Garlic Scapes
Sautéing is the simplest and most popular way to cook garlic scapes, bringing out their natural sweetness and mild garlic flavor.
– Cut the scapes into 1-2 inch pieces.
– Heat a tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
– Add the garlic scapes, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they start to brown.
– For extra tenderness, add a splash of water, cover, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
– Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
This method works great as a side dish or a topping for pasta, pizza, or eggs.
2. Blanch and Sauté (Two-Step Method)
For a vibrant green and tender-crisp texture, try blanching before sautéing:
– Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add garlic scapes and boil for 1-2 minutes until bright green.
– Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.
– Drain well, then sauté with garlic and onions until browned and fragrant.
This technique helps keep the scapes tender but still crisp, perfect for stir-fries or salads.
3. Grilled Garlic Scapes
Grilling adds a smoky char and deepens the sweet garlic flavor while keeping the scapes crisp.
– Toss whole scapes with olive oil and salt.
– Grill over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred and tender.
– Chop after grilling or serve whole as a delicious side or appetizer.
Grilled scapes pair wonderfully with other summer vegetables or as a crunchy addition to salads and grain bowls.
4. Pickled Garlic Scapes
Pickling is a fantastic way to preserve garlic scapes beyond their short season.
– Pack trimmed scapes in a jar with a brine made of vinegar, water, salt, and sugar.
– Let them ferment for a few days in the fridge.
– Enjoy as a tangy, garlicky condiment on sandwiches, salads, or as a snack.
Flavor Ideas and Recipe Inspirations
Garlic scapes are incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
– Garlic Scape Pesto: Blend scapes with pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil, and lemon juice for a vibrant twist on traditional pesto.
– Stir-Fried Garlic Scapes: Toss with soy sauce, sesame seeds, and a touch of brown sugar for an Asian-inspired side dish.
– Salads and Grain Bowls: Add grilled or sautéed scapes for a fresh, garlicky crunch.
– Soups and Stews: Use tougher ends as flavoring like bay leaves, then remove before serving.
– Pizza Topping: Scatter sautéed scapes over pizza for a mild garlic punch.
Tips for Cooking Garlic Scapes Like a Pro
– Don’t overcook: Garlic scapes taste best when they retain some crunch.
– Use them as a garlic substitute: One garlic scape can replace one clove of garlic in recipes, offering a milder flavor.
– Experiment with seasonings: Garlic scapes pair well with lemon, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Garlic scapes are a delightful way to celebrate summer’s bounty. With their unique flavor and easy preparation, they can elevate everyday dishes into something special. Whether sautéed, grilled, pickled, or blended into pesto, cooking garlic scapes is a simple pleasure worth trying.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with garlic scapes!