How Do You Eat Scapes? A Delicious Guide to Enjoying Scapes in Various Ways!
Scapes, also known as garlic scapes, are the curly green shoots that emerge from garlic bulbs. They have a mild garlic flavor with a hint of sweetness, making them a versatile and delicious ingredient in various dishes. If you’re wondering how to incorporate scapes into your meals, we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to enjoy scapes and provide some mouthwatering recipes for you to try.
1. Grilled Scapes
Grilling scapes is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy their unique taste. Start by trimming the tough ends of the scapes and tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the scapes directly on the grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are slightly charred and tender. Serve them as a side dish or chop them up to add to salads, pasta, or stir-fries.
2. Scapes Pesto
Scapes pesto is a delightful twist on the classic basil pesto. In a food processor, combine a bunch of trimmed scapes, a handful of fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil if needed. Use this vibrant pesto as a spread on sandwiches, a sauce for pasta, or a dip for vegetables.
3. Scapes Stir-Fry
Stir-frying scapes with other vegetables and protein creates a quick and flavorful dish. Heat some oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add sliced scapes, along with your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the scapes are tender-crisp. Add your protein of choice, such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp, and cook until fully cooked. Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired stir-fry.
4. Scapes Soup
Scapes can add a unique flavor to soups and broths. Start by sautéing chopped scapes in a pot with some olive oil until they soften. Add your choice of vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or zucchini, and cook for a few minutes. Pour in vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice for a comforting and flavorful soup.
5. Scapes Sautéed with Pasta
Sautéed scapes make a delightful topping for pasta dishes. Cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. In a separate pan, heat some olive oil and sauté chopped scapes until they become tender. Toss the cooked pasta with the sautéed scapes, grated Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a simple yet delicious meal.
Conclusion
Scapes are a versatile ingredient that can elevate the flavor of your dishes. Whether you choose to grill them, make pesto, stir-fry, or incorporate them into soups and pasta, scapes offer a unique and delicious garlic-infused taste. Experiment with these ideas and let your taste buds explore the wonderful world of scapes!