Garlic scapes are the flowering stems of hardneck garlic, which if left uncut will eventually turn into a cluster of small bulbils at the top of the stem. In our region, the scapes emerge from the leaf whorl in early-mid June. The young scapes are a delicious, short-season treat, prized in Asian and European cuisine, and offer a mild garlic flavor useful in many recipes. Favorite dishes include garlic pesto, stir fries, sautes, soups, and salads. Garlic scapes may be frozen for later use, either raw or in a processed form. The season is very short, as the stems become more fibrous quickly, so Oxford Farmer’s Market shoppers will want to take advantage of their availability when they are at their peak in tenderness and flavor.
