The Drying Process for Russian Garlic

Russian garlic, also referred to as Elephant garlic, is not truly garlic but is instead related closely to leeks. The large cloves of Russian garlic are often as large as an entire bulb of regular garlic. Despite the overwhelming size, the mild flavor is a departure from the strong heat that traditional garlic imparts. You can store Russian garlic for several months after drying, ensuring that you have it available during the off-season while you wait for the next harvest.

Things You'll Need

• String

Instructions

1. Harvest the Russian garlic carefully, keeping the center stalk intact. Loosen the dirt around the bulb then remove the bulb gently by hand.

2. Tie the garlic bulbs together, and tie the center stalks tightly. Tie a sturdy string to the top bulb.

3. Hang the bulbs, securing them with the string. Select a location that is cool and dry with good air circulation.

4. Store the bulbs hanging in a cool, dry area for three to five months.

References

• Green Harvest: Elephant Garlic Growing Information
• Government of Western Austrailia Department of Agriculture and Food: Growing Garlic in Western Australia
• University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension: Garlic and Elephant Garlic