Introduction to Freezing Garlic Scapes
Garlic scapes are the long, curly shoots that grow from the bulbs of hardneck garlic plants. They are harvested in early summer before they flower. Garlic scapes are known for their milder flavor compared to garlic cloves and can be used similarly in cooking. Freezing them is a great way to preserve their fresh, garlicky flavor for use throughout the year. Here’s how you can do it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Freezing Garlic Scapes
Step 1: Harvesting or Purchasing Garlic Scapes
Start with fresh garlic scapes. If you grow your own hardneck garlic, cut the scapes off the plant once they’ve made one or two loops. If you’re purchasing them, look for firm, bright green scapes without any brown spots.
Step 2: Cleaning and Preparing the Scapes
Wash the scapes in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Once they are clean, pat them dry with a clean towel. Trim the ends of the scapes and cut them into smaller, manageable pieces if desired. The size you cut the scapes into will depend on how you plan to use them later.
Step 3: Blanching (Optional)
Blanching garlic scapes can preserve their color, flavor, and nutritional value. To blanch, bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water on the side. Place the garlic scapes into the boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes, then promptly remove them and plunge into the ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and pat them dry.
Step 4: Flash Freezing
Lay out the scapes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch, to prevent them from freezing together. Place the baking sheet in the freezer and freeze until the scapes are solid, which usually takes about one to two hours.
Step 5: Storing in Freezer Bags or Containers
Once the scapes are frozen solid, transfer them to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible from the bags to prevent freezer burn. Label the bags or containers with the date of freezing. Garlic scapes can last in the freezer for up to 12 months without significant loss of flavor.
Step 6: Using Frozen Garlic Scapes
When you’re ready to use your frozen garlic scapes, there’s no need to thaw them. They can go directly from the freezer into your recipe. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, so they are best used in cooked applications rather than raw.
Tips and Considerations
Freezing garlic scapes is straightforward, but keep in mind these tips to ensure the best results:
- Use fresh scapes for the highest quality after freezing.
- The blanching step is optional, but it will help preserve the best qualities of the scapes.
- If you plan to use the scapes in smaller portions, consider freezing them in portions you’re likely to use at once.
- Keep your freezer at a consistent temperature for the best preservation.
With these steps, freezing garlic scapes can extend the enjoyment of their flavor far beyond their season. Whether you toss them into a stir-fry, blend them into pesto, or use them as a pizza topping, frozen garlic scapes add a wonderful and unique garlic flavor to many dishes.