Purple garlic cloves are a variety of garlic that get their unique color from anthocyanin, the same pigment that gives black grapes their dark hue.
While the cloves may be a bit smaller in size than traditional white or yellow garlic, purple garlic packs the same flavorful punch as its more common counterparts.
When used in cooking, it can give dishes a beautiful purple hue, making it a popular choice for chefs who want to add a bit of color to their creations. Read on to see its taste, uses, benefits, varieties, and more.
What is purple garlic?
Purple garlic, also known as Allium sativum L., is a specie of garlic native to Central Asia and Northeastern Iran. It has been cultivated since ancient times and is now grown in many parts of the world.
It is a member of the onion family, which includes shallots, leeks, and chives. The bulbs are small and round, with purple skin and white flesh tinged with red.
They have a milder flavor than other types of garlic and are often used in pickling or as a garnish.
Purple garlic is also known for its health benefits. It helps to reduce cholesterol, prevents cancer, and boosts the immune system.
Purple garlic cloves taste
This variety of garlic is milder in taste than other types of garlic and has a sweetness to it that is reminiscent of onions.
Purple garlic is often used in Italian cuisine and can be found in recipes for pasta sauces, pesto, and vinaigrettes.
If you are looking for a garlic variety that has a more subtle flavor, purple garlic is a good option.
Are purple garlic cloves okay to eat?
Yes, they are perfectly fine to eat. The garlic type can be a great ingredient to add some extra flavor to your dishes.
Purple garlic cloves have a slightly different taste than traditional white or yellow garlic, so they are an alternatively pleasant way to change things up in your cooking.
If you’re not sure how to use purple garlic, start by substituting it for regular garlic in your favorite recipes.
You can also add it to soups, stews, or pasta dishes for an extra boost of flavor. Just be sure to chop the cloves up well before adding them to your food so that they don’t overwhelm the dish.
Purple garlic health benefits
- It is a great source of antioxidants and has been shown to help reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
- It may also help improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
- Purple garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and can help relieve pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other conditions.
- They may also help boost the immune system and protect against infections.
- This garlic is a low-calorie food and is a good choice for those on a weight-loss diet.
- It is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Purple garlic varieties
Thai purple garlic: This variety is characterized by its large cloves and thin skin. It has a strong, pungent flavor that is perfect for use in Asian cuisine.
Chinese purple garlic: This variety is smaller in size than Thai purple garlic, but it has a more intense flavor. It is often used in stir-fries and other Chinese dishes.
Purple glazer garlic: This is a hybrid variety that was developed in the Republic of Georgia. It has both large cloves and a strong flavor, making it good all-purpose garlic.
Italian purple garlic: This variety is similar in size and flavor to Chinese purple garlic, but it has a slightly milder taste. It is often used in Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza.
Purple haze garlic: This is a variety that was developed in Colorado. It has a very strong flavor and is perfect for use in any dish where you want a real garlic kick.
Garlic vs purple garlic
Purple garlic is a variety of garlic prized for its unique color and flavor. Though it is not as well known as other types of garlic, it has been gaining popularity in recent years among chefs and home cooks alike.
Like other types of garlic, purple garlic is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, manganese, and selenium. It also contains compounds that have been shown to have anticancer, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What makes purple garlic different from other garlic?
The answer lies in its pigmentation. Additionally, white garlic has a stronger flavor than purple garlic when fresh, and is also more pungent. Purple garlic, on the other hand, has a milder flavor and is less pungent.
This type of garlic is also less common than white garlic and can be harder to find at the store, except for specialty markets.
Overall, both types of garlic have unique flavor profiles that can add a bit of zing to your favorite dishes, and they are the two main types you’re more likely to find when shopping.
Is purple garlic better than white garlic?
Yes, to an extent. There isn’t a lot of difference in the nutritional value of purple and white garlic. Both types are good sources of vitamins C and B6, manganese, selenium, and fiber.
Purple garlic has a bit more antioxidants than white garlic, but overall, both varieties offer similar health benefits.
Can you substitute purple garlic for white garlic in cooking?
Yes, you can. Purple garlic has a milder flavor than white garlic, so it may not be as strong in dishes. You may need to use more purple garlic to get the same flavor as white garlic.
Where to buy purple garlic
Purple garlic is available in farmers’ markets and specialty stores. It has deep purple cloves and is often used as a decorative edible for its vibrant color.
FAQs
Can you use garlic that turned purple?
Yes, you can. The purple color is caused by a chemical reaction that occurs when the garlic is exposed to oxygen. This does not affect the flavor of the garlic.
Does purple garlic taste different?
Yes, purple garlic does have a slightly different taste than white garlic. It is a bit milder and sweeter. Some people also say that it has a hint of lavender flavor.
Where does purple garlic come from?
Like other garlic, it originates from central Asia.
Is purple garlic spicy?
Yes, it is. Purple garlic has a slightly spicy flavor. If you are looking for more spice in your garlic, you may want to try another variety.
Conclusion
Purple garlic cloves are not only a beautiful addition to any dish, but they are also incredibly healthy. Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, these cloves can help boost your immune system, fight cancer cells, and improve heart health.
So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up some purple garlic cloves and add them to your next meal.
Thank you for reading.
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