Size: Half pint of early garlic, approximately 5-7 bulbs
Flavour Profile: Early garlic tends to have a milder, slightly sweeter taste. It may lack the strong pungency associated with mature garlic, making it suitable for dishes where a subtle garlic flavour is desired.
2. Texture: The cloves of early garlic are typically softer and more tender. Their texture can be somewhat juicy, while mature garlic has a firmer, drier texture that's ideal for storage.
3. Appearance: Early garlic heads are usually smaller and may have a lighter colour. The outer skins might not have fully developed, making them less papery than fully mature garlic bulbs.
4. Culinary Uses: Early garlic can be used fresh in salads, salsas, and as a seasoning in various dishes. Its softer texture makes it easier to mash or blend into sauces. In contrast, mature garlic is better suited for roasting, sautéing, or preserving.
5. Storage: Early garlic does not store as long as fully matured garlic. It has a shorter shelf life however it can be prolonged by keeping it in the fridge.
In summary, choosing early garlic allows for a fresh, mild flavour that can enhance many dishes, while waiting for fully mature garlic provides a more robust taste and longer storage capabilities. Each has its place in cooking depending on the desired outcome.