We are thrilled to share the exciting news that we’ve just harvested our garlic! It’s always a moment of pride and joy for us here when we bring in the garlic crop, knowing that months of careful planning, nurturing, and patience have finally paid off. Let’s take a closer look at the journey of our garlic, from planting to harvest, and share some delicious ways to use this versatile and flavourful ingredient. Who doesn’t love Garlic Scapes!
Planting Garlic in the Fall
Our garlic adventure began last fall when we planted the cloves in our well-prepared beds. Garlic is a crop that requires a bit of foresight, as it needs several months to mature. We planted our garlic cloves in late October, spacing them about 6 inches apart and covering them with a layer of mulch to protect them from the winter chill.
The Long Wait and Harvest
Throughout the winter, the garlic remained dormant, but as soon as spring arrived, we began to see the green shoots emerging from the soil. Over the next few months, we kept a close eye on our garlic, ensuring it received enough water and was free from weeds and pests. Finally, after 9 months of growth, our garlic was ready for harvest.
We pulled the garlic from the ground, marveling at the beautiful, plump bulbs. But our work wasn’t done yet. To fully develop its flavor and ensure it stores well, garlic needs to cure.
Curing Garlic
Curing garlic is a crucial step that takes about 3-4 weeks. We lay our freshly harvested garlic on wire shelving, in a dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight. This allows the garlic to dry slowly, which concentrates its flavours and preserves it for long-term storage. Once cured, we trim the roots and tops and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place.
Delicious Uses for Garlic
Garlic is a kitchen staple known for its pungent aroma and bold flavor. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes to add depth and complexity. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Roasted Garlic: Simply roast whole garlic bulbs with a drizzle of olive oil until soft and caramelized. Spread the creamy cloves on bread or mix into mashed potatoes for a rich, savoury flavour.
- Garlic Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt. Use it to top steaks, spread on bread, or melt over steamed vegetables.
- Garlic Soup: Simmer garlic with onions, broth, and potatoes for a comforting and flavorful soup. Blend until smooth and finish with a splash of cream.
Garlic in our Farm Baskets!
Garlic will be available as an add-on to the farm basket. If you prefer the milder taste of fresh garlic or need it for a recipe right away, you can certainly use it uncured. Fresh garlic has a higher moisture content and a less concentrated flavour, which can be appealing in certain dishes.
While fresh garlic is perfectly fine for immediate use, curing garlic is essential for long-term storage and to fully develop its flavour. Whether you choose to use it fresh or cured, garlic is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy experimenting with this wonderful ingredient in your kitchen!. It’s a wonderful addition to salads, stir-fries, and marinades.
We hope you enjoy these garlic tips and recipes. As always, thank you for supporting local agriculture and for being a part of our farm community. Stay tuned for more updates and delicious ideas from Little Farm Cart!
With garlic goodness,
Little Farm Cart
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