Who doesn’t love garlic?! Being Asian, garlic is a very common ingredient in our cuisine. Garlic scapes, those curly, vibrant flower stalks of hardneck garlic plants, are a hidden gem in the culinary world. With their short growing season, the question on many food enthusiasts’ minds is how to preserve garlic scapes so they can enjoy their unique flavor all year round. Lucky for us, freezing garlic scapes is an effective way to extend their shelf life while keeping their delightful taste and nutritional benefits intact.
Let’s dive into the easy process of how to freeze garlic scapes. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps, share the benefits, and offer some tips for cooking with these frozen treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just love experimenting in the kitchen, learning how to preserve garlic scapes will be a game-changer for your culinary adventures.
Table of Contents
- 1 Benefits of Freezing Garlic Scapes
- 2 Step-by-Step Freezing Process
- 3 Alternative Preservation Methods
- 4 Cooking with Frozen Garlic Scapes
- 5 FAQs About How to Freeze Garlic Scapes
- 5.1 Can you freeze garlic scapes without blanching?
- 5.2 What is the best way to store garlic scapes?
- 5.3 Should I blanch garlic scapes?
- 5.4 What to do with frozen scapes?
- 5.5 How do you prepare garlic for freezing?
- 5.6 Can you freeze garlic without blanching?
- 5.7 What is the best thing to do with garlic scapes?
- 5.8 How do you freeze dry garlic scapes?
- 5.9 How long do garlic scapes last after cutting?
- 5.10 Can you store garlic scapes in olive oil?
- 5.11 Are garlic scapes better raw or cooked?
- 5.12 Can you vacuum pack garlic scapes?
- 5.13 Does garlic lose flavor when frozen?
- 5.14 How long will garlic last in the freezer?
- 5.15 Does freezing garlic reduce its potency?
Benefits of Freezing Garlic Scapes
Extended Shelf Life
Fresh garlic scapes can last for about two to three weeks in the fridge, but freezing them can extend their usability to several months. I’ve found that frozen garlic scapes can maintain their quality for up to six months, making them a fantastic ingredient to have on hand for those off-season cravings.
Preserving Flavor
Freezing garlic scapes does result in some flavor loss compared to fresh ones, but it’s still a fantastic way to capture their essence. Blanching them before freezing helps retain their bright green color and locks in more of their flavor. Simply blanch, cool in an ice bath, pat dry, and store in freezer bags or airtight containers.
Convenience
One of my favorite things about freezing garlic scapes is the convenience it offers. You don’t need to thaw them before cooking—just toss them straight into your dish! They’re perfect for stir-fries, soups, stews, and sautés. For added convenience, try vacuum sealing them in small portions to preserve their freshness even longer.
Step-by-Step Freezing Process
Cleaning and Prepping
Start by giving your garlic scapes a gentle rinse under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off any damaged or discolored portions. You can cut them into smaller segments, typically 1 to 2 inches long, or leave them as longer pieces depending on your preference. Don’t forget to remove the flower bloom from the stem using clean kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.
Blanching Technique
Blanching is a key step to preserve the color, texture, and flavor of garlic scapes. Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare an ice bath. Submerge the scapes in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes, then quickly transfer them to the ice bath to cool. This locks in their bright green color and distinctive flavor.
Packaging for Freezer
After blanching, drain and dry the scapes thoroughly. Here are a few methods for freezing:
- Single Layer Freezing: Lay the scapes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 24 hours.
- Portioned Packaging: Pack the scapes into freezer-safe containers or bags, measuring out one or two cups per portion.
- Vacuum Sealing: If you have a vacuum sealer, use it to package the scapes in small portions.
- Ice Cube Method: Chop the scapes and add them to ice cube trays, topping with water before freezing.
Remove as much air as possible from the packaging to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers or bags with the date before placing them back in the freezer. When stored properly, frozen garlic scapes can last for several months, allowing you to enjoy them year-round.
Alternative Preservation Methods
Dehydrating
Dehydrating garlic scapes is another excellent way to preserve their flavor. Clean and trim the scapes, then cut them into small pieces. Spread them in a single layer on a dehydrator tray and dry at 90-100°F for about six hours until very dry. Store the dehydrated scapes in sealed glass containers.
Fermenting
Fermenting garlic scapes not only extends their shelf life but also adds probiotic benefits. Place trimmed scapes in a mason jar with seasonings and cover with a salt water brine. Let it ferment at room temperature for 7-14 days, then store in the refrigerator.
Pickling
Pickling is another flavorful way to preserve garlic scapes. Quick pickling involves trimming and cutting the scapes, adding spices, and pouring a boiling vinegar brine over them. For longer storage, use the traditional water bath canning method.
Cooking with Frozen Garlic Scapes
Soups and Stews
Frozen garlic scapes are fantastic in soups and stews. They add a mild garlic flavor that mellows beautifully with cooking. Try them in a garlic scape soup by sautéing diced onions and scapes in olive oil, then adding your favorite broth and simmering until tender.
Stir-fries
Garlic scapes are perfect for stir-fries. Their quick cooking time and ability to be used directly from the freezer make them a versatile ingredient. Sauté them with your favorite vegetables and proteins for a quick, flavorful meal.
Pestos and Sauces
Garlic scapes make a unique base for pestos and sauces. Blend them with nuts, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice for a delicious pesto that can be frozen for later use.
FAQs About How to Freeze Garlic Scapes
Can you freeze garlic scapes without blanching?
Yes, you can freeze garlic scapes without blanching, but blanching helps preserve their color, flavor, and texture. If you choose to freeze them raw, wash and chop them properly before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What is the best way to store garlic scapes?
For short-term storage, keep garlic scapes in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container. For long-term storage, freezing is the best method. Clean, chop, and store them in airtight freezer bags or vacuum-sealed bags.
Should I blanch garlic scapes?
Blanching garlic scapes before freezing is recommended to preserve their color, flavor, and texture. Briefly boil the scapes, then cool them in an ice bath before freezing.
What to do with frozen scapes?
Frozen garlic scapes can be used in various dishes, including soups, stews, stir-fries, and pestos. You can add them directly to your recipes without thawing.
How do you prepare garlic for freezing?
Peel and chop garlic cloves, then freeze them whole, minced, or as a paste in airtight containers or freezer bags. Proper preparation prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor.
Can you freeze garlic without blanching?
Yes, garlic can be frozen without blanching. However, blanching can help maintain its flavor and texture over time. Ensure it is well-prepared and stored in airtight containers to prevent flavor loss.
What is the best thing to do with garlic scapes?
Garlic scapes are versatile and can be used in various dishes. Sauté them, grill them, or add them to soups, salads, and pestos for a mild garlic flavor.
How do you freeze dry garlic scapes?
To freeze dry garlic scapes, wash and chop them into small pieces, then use a freeze dryer to remove moisture. Store the freeze-dried scapes in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
How long do garlic scapes last after cutting?
Garlic scapes last about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator after cutting. For longer storage, freezing them is the best option. Properly stored, they can last several months in the freezer.
Can you store garlic scapes in olive oil?
Yes, you can store garlic scapes in olive oil, but keep them in the refrigerator to prevent the risk of botulism. Use them within a week to ensure safety.
Are garlic scapes better raw or cooked?
Garlic scapes can be enjoyed both raw and cooked. Raw scapes are crisp and mildly flavored, while cooking softens their texture and deepens their flavor. Choose based on your recipe and preference.
Can you vacuum pack garlic scapes?
Yes, vacuum packing garlic scapes is a great way to preserve their freshness and extend their shelf life. Ensure they are properly prepared and dried before vacuum sealing.
Does garlic lose flavor when frozen?
Garlic can lose some potency when frozen, but proper preparation and storage minimize this effect. Freezing helps maintain its flavor for convenient use.
How long will garlic last in the freezer?
Garlic can last up to 6-12 months in the freezer if stored properly in airtight containers or freezer bags. Ensure it is well-sealed to maintain quality.
Does freezing garlic reduce its potency?
Freezing garlic may slightly reduce its potency, but it retains most of its flavor and nutritional value. Proper storage and handling minimize any loss in potency.
