Bulb and stem vegetables

Elephant garlic (Allium ampeloprasum) is a plant belonging to the onion genus with very large cloves and a tender, mild, slightly sweet flavor. Many grocers stock elephant garlic when it is in season, and it is also very easy to grow at home.

Type

While resembling common garlic (Allium sativum) in taste and appearance, elephant garlic is taxonomically a leek. Unlike other leeks, elephant garlic has been bred to produce larger edible cloves underground, with less of a focus on the green stalks of the plant. When allowed to fully mature, elephant garlic can develop cloves which are as big as bulbs of regular garlic.

Flavor

The large size tricks some consumers into thinking that elephant garlic will have a strong flavor. In fact, the flavor is actually quite delicate and complex, but it is also very mild, without the biting burn associated with true garlic. However, this mild flavor can be used to advantage, as elephant garlic is great raw in an assortment of foods, and it can be added to dishes at the last minute for a garlicky note. Care should be taken when cooking elephant garlic, as it can turn bitter if it is cooked too long.

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