2021 CSA Farm Update: Week 1

Welcome everyone to week one of the Katchkie Farm CSA! We have a wonderful season of delicious vegetables ahead of us. Every week we will be brining you what is in season here on our Hudson Valley Farm.

I would like to introduce my beloved friend the garlic scape this week. This is one of those vegetables that is truly a seasonal marvel that will add much flavor to all of your culinary adventures over the next couple of weeks. If you could imagine a scallion, but more dense with a mild garlic flavor you would be close to the garlic scape.

You may be asking what exactly is a garlic scape? Is it related to garlic? Does it grow in the ground like garlic? What do you do with it? The garlic scape is actually part of the garlic plant itself. This time of year, it is a very timid looking stalk that is curled like a pig’s tail. This is also the perfect time to harvest it, while it is tender. In about three weeks, this timid looking stalk straightens up and heads for the skies. Which if left on the plant would produce flowers and hundreds on very tiny garlic. Harvesting at this point would also produce a very fibrous vegetable that would still add amazing flavor to soups, roasts and stews, but might not be the best addition to your omelet. Also, by removing the scape in its tender pig tail stage, we are letting the plant harness all of its energy into the producing a larger bulb, which is really why we grow the garlic.

Most importantly, here are a couple of ideas for using garlic scapes. The simplest way to use these culinary treats is an addition to sauteed vegetables. Chop them as you would scallions, toss them in your pan and stir for a minute, then add your vegetables. A favorite of mine is to make a pesto with them. This time of year, a garlic scape, kale pesto is truly a seasonal delight. Added to pasta or spread on a sandwich, who could ask for anything more?

Until next time,
Farmer Jon