If you planted garlic last fall, this is what your garlic looks like now.
The curly part in the middle is a scape. You must cut them off right where they come out of the main plant. This way the plant will put all energy into growing large bulbs instead of developing a flower.
Don't throw the scapes out! This where the fun begins. All you need is scapes, lemon juice and sea salt (1 tblsp lemon juice and 1 tsp sea salt for every pound of scapes).
Cut the part off the scape where the flower starts. The flower end is woody. Toss that part. Place in a good quality food processor and buzz until a smooth paste is formed. Place in clean jars and push down until you see some brine on the top. If you find you don't have enough brine just make more lemon juice and salt and pour on top. I use grape leaves to keep a ferment covered. Leave on your counter for 4-5 days and then refrigerate. I used the last of my scape paste on appies at Christmas time last year. Very tasty and so easy to make! I will also be fermenting garlic bulbs later this year. Stay tuned!
