Harvesting Garlic Scapes for Bigger Bulb Growth and a Delicious Compound Butter Recipe
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Why Harvest Garlic Scapes?
If you're a garlic enthusiast or a dedicated gardener, you might already be familiar with the term "garlic scapes." For those new to the term, garlic scapes are the curly, green flower stalks that hardneck garlic varieties produce in the late spring or early summer. Harvesting these scapes is a crucial practice for anyone looking to maximize their garlic bulb harvest.
1. Encourages Bigger Bulb Growth:
Garlic plants put a significant amount of energy into producing scapes. By removing them, you redirect the plant's energy from flower and seed production to bulb development. This results in larger, more robust garlic bulbs, which is the ultimate goal for any garlic grower.
2. Improves Garlic Quality:
Not only does harvesting scapes lead to bigger bulbs, but it also enhances the overall quality. The cloves tend to be plumper and more flavorful, providing a superior culinary experience.
3. Prevents Disease:
Removing scapes can improve air circulation around the garlic plants, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. This is particularly important in humid climates where garlic is prone to such issues.
4. Culinary Delights:
Garlic scapes themselves are a culinary treasure. Their mild garlic flavor makes them a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. From pesto to stir-fries, and soups to salads, garlic scapes add a delightful twist to many dishes. One of the simplest and most delightful ways to use them is in a compound butter.
Garlic Scape Compound Butter Recipe
Transform your freshly harvested garlic scapes into a delicious compound butter that can elevate a variety of dishes. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup garlic scapes, rum through a food processor or otherwise finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon orange or lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Garlic Scapes:
- Wash the garlic scapes thoroughly and trim off any tough ends.
- Finely chop the garlic scapes.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped garlic scapes, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. You can use a fork, a spatula, or a hand mixer for this step.
3. Shape the Butter:
- Place the mixture on a piece of parchment paper.
- Shape the butter into a log or any desired shape.
- Wrap it tightly in the parchment paper.
4. Chill the Butter:
- Refrigerate the butter for at least 1-2 hours, or until it is firm.
- You can also freeze it if you want to store it for a longer period.
5. Serve:
- Slice the butter as needed and use it to enhance the flavor of bread, steaks, vegetables, or any dish that could benefit from a burst of garlicky goodness.
Harvesting garlic scapes is a win-win for gardeners and cooks alike. By removing these flower stalks, you’re not only ensuring larger and healthier garlic bulbs but also gaining a versatile ingredient that can be used in various culinary creations. Try this garlic scape compound butter recipe to savor the mild, aromatic flavor of scapes, and enjoy the added benefit of more bountiful garlic harvests!
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