The Sprouted Garlic in My Kitchen: How to Use Green Sprouts

When I opened my kitchen drawer and found my garlic sprouting, the first thought was 'Oh no, is it still edible?' However, sprouted garlic is entirely safe for consumption and can add a unique and mild garlic flavor to your dishes. Here are some ideas on how to incorporate these green sprouts into your cooking.

Cooking

Chop the green sprouts and add them to stir-fries, soups, or sautés. Sprouted garlic can be used much like regular garlic, but use them in smaller quantities since they are milder in flavor. The mild taste of the green sprouts can complement your dishes nicely without overpowering the other ingredients.

Salads

Use the sprouts raw in your salads for a fresh and garlicky taste. They can add a nice crunch and depth of flavor to your greens. Chop them finely and toss them into your preferred dressing. Incorporating sprouted garlic into salads not only adds flavor but also provides a crunchy textural contrast.

Pesto

Blend the green sprouts with nuts, cheese, olive oil, and other herbs to make a unique pesto. The green sprouts can provide a different taste compared to regular garlic, making it a fantastic addition to your pesto recipe. This type of pesto can be used as a spread or as a base for pasta dishes.

Garnish

Use the sprouted garlic as a garnish for dishes like roasted vegetables, meats, or pasta to add a pop of color and flavor. The green sprouts can enhance the visual appeal of your dishes, making them look more appetizing. This is particularly useful for dishes that you want to highlight with a burst of flavor and color.

Herb Butter

Mix chopped sprouts into softened butter for a flavorful spread. Serve this herb butter with bread, roast vegetables, or as a side for grilled meats. The combination of garlic and butter can create a delicious spread that pairs well with various dishes.

Planting Sprouted Garlic

If you prefer, you can also plant your sprouted garlic to grow your own garlic. Make sure to plant them in well-drained soil with good sunlight. For those who enjoy gardening, it's a fun way to grow your own garlic and potentially enjoy a fresh supply of this flavorful ingredient.

Common Advice: There are two schools of thought when it comes to sprouted garlic. Some believe you should split the bulb and remove the bitter sprouts, while others say not to waste food and to get it in the pot. Personally, if I am cooking garlic soup with floaty bits, I would sort out the "straight" bulbs for show and puree the rest because I can't taste any bitterness from the sprouts anyway. The cloves resist heat and keep their typical smell, whereas sprouts are far more delicate and should be added to dishes after the gas is switched off.

If you find that your garlic cloves are still firm, you can plant them to grow your own garlic. Cut the clove in half and the sprouts come out effortlessly. Place the end in water for a week or so until roots sprout, then transplant it into soil. The greens themselves can be pretty tasty as well, adding a fresh and slightly garlicky flavor to your dishes.

Whether you choose to cook with the sprouted garlic or plant it for future use, don't let those green shoots go to waste. They can be a valuable addition to your kitchen, providing both flavor and aesthetic appeal to your dishes.