Garlic, an herb in the onion family, has been celebrated for over 5,000 years for its
medicinal and culinary uses. Originating in Asia, this ancient plant has made its way into kitchens and medicine cabinets worldwide, prized for its distinctive flavor and potent health benefits. In recent years, garlic has gained even more recognition due to its antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. These properties may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Types of Garlic: Softneck vs. Hardneck
Garlic comes in two primary types: softneck and hardneck. Each has unique characteristics that make it suitable for different culinary uses and growing conditions.
Softneck Garlic: This variety is most commonly found in grocery stores and is often used to make garlic braids due to its flexible stems. Softneck garlic has a long shelf life, making it a convenient choice for home cooks. However, its flavor is generally milder compared to hardneck varieties. Softneck garlic is well-suited to warmer climates and is typically easier to grow, making it a popular choice among commercial garlic producers.
Hardneck Garlic: This variety is known for producing garlic scapes, the edible flower stalks that emerge in early summer. Hardneck garlic has a more robust, pungent flavor, making it a favorite among garlic enthusiasts. It also comes in various colors and sizes, offering a diverse range of flavors from sweet to intensely spicy. These varieties are often found at farmers markets or specialty produce stores, where they attract those looking for something beyond the standard grocery store garlic.

Growing Garlic in Burke County, NC
For those interested in growing their garlic, Burke County, NC, offers an ideal climate. The best time to plant garlic in this region is from mid-October to November, allowing the cloves to establish roots before the ground freezes. Garlic thrives in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, and with a bit of care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest by the following summer.

After harvesting, it’s important to store garlic properly to maintain its quality. Keep your garlic in well-ventilated containers away from light, which will help preserve its freshness for months.

Nutritional Benefits of Garlic
Garlic is not just a flavorful addition to meals; it is also packed with important nutrients. According to Michigan State University Extension, garlic contains Selenium, Manganese, Vitamin B6, and sulfur compounds, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining good health. Selenium and Manganese are vital for antioxidant functions, helping to protect the body from oxidative stress. Additionally, garlic may help improve the bioavailability of iron, making it easier for the body to utilize this essential mineral.

Culinary Uses of Garlic
While most people are familiar with using garlic cloves in cooking, the garlic plant has more to offer. The University of Maryland Extension notes that garlic scapes, the flower stems of hardneck varieties, can be used similarly to scallions, adding a mild garlic flavor to dishes. The intensity of garlic’s flavor is at its peak shortly after chopping or crushing due to a chemical reaction that occurs when the garlic cells are broken. This reaction is responsible for the pungent taste that garlic is famous for, while roasting garlic results in a sweeter, milder flavor.

Safe Storage and Preservation Methods
Garlic is a low-acid vegetable, which means it requires careful handling to prevent the
growth of harmful bacteria, such as Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism. This is particularly important when storing garlic in oil or canning it at home. Garlic stored in oil should be kept in the refrigerator for no more than three weeks to minimize the risk of botulism.

Pickling Garlic: Pickling is a great way to preserve garlic while adding a tangy flavor. Simply boil garlic cloves, then pack them into jars with a vinegar-sugar brine. Adding spices like bay leaves, black peppercorns, or red pepper flakes can create custom flavors.

Freezing Garlic: Garlic can also be frozen to extend its shelf life. Whether chopped,
pureed with oil, or frozen whole, garlic retains its flavor and nutritional benefits when
properly stored in the freezer. The National Center for Home Food Preservation is a great resource for preserving garlic.

Drying Garlic: Drying is another effective method for preserving garlic. Fresh, firm cloves can be halved and dried at a low temperature until crisp. Once dried, garlic can be ground into powder and mixed with salt to create homemade garlic salt.
Garlic is a versatile and nutritious addition to both your garden and your kitchen. Whether you’re growing softneck or hardneck varieties, garlic offers a range of flavors and health benefits. With proper storage and preservation techniques, you can enjoy the fresh taste of garlic year-round while reaping its numerous health benefits.
Here is one of my favorite recipes using fresh garlic. Try it and let me know what you
think!

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl
Serves: 4
Serving size: ¼ recipe
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time:15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
1/2 Tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground chicken breast (or use lean ground turkey, pork, or beef)
1/2 onion, diced
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced or grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
14-ounce bag coleslaw or broccoli slaw mix
3 Tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
1 Tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
2 green onions, sliced

Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pan until hot, then add and cook protein.
For deeper flavor, place ground chicken into pan and press until it covers the bottom of the pan. Do not touch for at least 5 minutes. This allows a slight crust to develop on the meat. After about 5 minutes, break meat up and heat until cooked through.
Transfer to a bowl and set aside Add onion and cook until softened slightly, about 2 minutes Add ginger and garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute
Stir in carrot and coleslaw mix, cooking until slightly softened. About 2 minutes
Add cooked ground chicken back in. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, if using. Stir until everything is thoroughly coated in the sauce. Cook until cabbage and carrots are starting to soften. Top with green onions and serve.