Garlic
Basic Information
Fresh garlic is available from August to October in Nova Scotia.
Growing garlic near other vegetables, such as tomatoes, can help protect against pests.
Once garlic is cut or chopped, an antioxidant called allicin is created. Allicin contains antibiotic and antifungal properties.
Garlic scapes, which are the long, curly green stalks that grow from the top of the garlic bulb, can be harvested and eaten! Scapes have a very mild garlic flavour.
Storage, Preservation, Preparation & Cooking
Garlic bulbs can keep for up to a year if stored in a brown paper bag in a dark, dry place between 4-16°C. When you begin to remove cloves from the bulb, it will reduce its shelf life.
While there are many recipes suggesting that garlic can be stored in oil, we do not recommend this; improper storage of garlic in oil can produce a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum which can lead to botulism.
Garlic can be roasted whole, but for most recipes, the cloves must be separated from the bulb and peeled before use.
Garlic is a great addition to many dishes, such as salad dressings, pasta dishes or dips. Garlic scapes can be used in many of the same ways as garlic.
