Georgian Fire Garlic (Lb)

• The raw flavor is intense and sweet, with a creamy finish
• Truly one of the hottest garlics; full-bodied and strong with heat that builds to an unexpected late kick in the back of the throat
• Makes an excellent salsa and a preferred variety for eating fresh, pickling, or roasting
• Big, fat, creamy white with approximately 5-9 rose-skinned cloves per bulb and 6-8 bulbs per pound
• 2" and larger diameter bulbs
• Grown in Canada

Origin and Overview

Georgian Fire garlic, a variety celebrated for its rich robust flavor and spicy heat, hails from the Republic of Georgia in the Caucasus region. This hardneck garlic, known as Georgian Fire hardneck garlic, belongs to the Porcelain group and is recognized for its large bulbs and large and beautiful garlic cloves. Its hardy nature and strong, lingering taste have made it a favorite among garlic enthusiasts and home gardeners alike.

Characteristics

It is easily recognizable by its impressive size and striking appearance. The bulbs are typically large, with a smooth, white outer skin that has a glossy finish. Each bulb contains about 4 to 6 large cloves, which are covered in a reddish-brown, papery skin. The cloves are hefty and uniform, making them easy to peel and use.

The flavor of Georgian Fire hardneck garlic is intense and spicy, living up to its fiery name. It has a sharp, bold taste when raw, providing a significant kick that is prized in culinary applications where a strong garlic presence is desired. When cooked, the heat mellows slightly, but it still retains a rich, robust flavor with a pleasant depth and complexity. This variety is often described as beautiful garlic, with a full-bodied garlic taste and a clean, hot finish that garlic enthusiasts love to eat. Note that this garlic can weigh up to a pound or more, making it a substantial addition to any kitchen.

Flavor and Aroma Profile

• Flavor Profile: It is celebrated for its fiery and robust flavor. Eaten raw, this hardneck garlic delivers a strong, spicy kick that is ideal for those who appreciate a bold garlic presence. The heat builds gradually, offering one of the hottest garlic experiences, which is highly valued in various culinary applications. Whether grown in northern or southern states, this garlic is a top pick for those seeking a full-bodied and intense flavor.

• Aroma Profile: When freshly peeled or chopped, it emits a potent, pungent aroma that can enhance the sensory experience of cooking. The strong scent is a hallmark of its quality and is particularly noticeable in raw preparations like salsas and dressings.

Pairing Recommendations

• Food Pairings: This garlic pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods. It complements robust meats such as beef and lamb, and can also elevate the flavors of roasted vegetables and hearty stews. Its intense flavor is balanced by ingredients like tomatoes, citrus, and herbs, making it a versatile addition to many recipes.

• Wine and Beverage Pairings: The strong flavor of this garlic pairs well with bold wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, which can stand up to its intensity. For a more refreshing contrast, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine or a light beer to balance the heat.

Cultivation Requirements

Growing it is relatively straightforward, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are the key cultivation requirements:

• Climate: This variety thrives in cooler climates and requires a period of cold weather to develop properly. It is well-suited to regions with cold winters, as the chill helps to stimulate bulb formation.
• Soil: It prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve soil structure and nutrient content.
• Planting: Cloves should be planted in the fall, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes. Plant each clove pointed end up, 2-3 inches deep, and 6-8 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. Rows should be spaced about 12 inches apart.
• Watering: Consistent watering is essential, especially during dry spells. However, it's important to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot. Aim for evenly moist soil throughout the growing season.
• Care: Mulching with straw or leaves can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the bulbs from temperature fluctuations. Fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote healthy growth.
• Harvesting: It is typically ready to harvest in mid-summer. When the lower leaves start to turn brown, it's a sign that the bulbs are mature. Carefully dig up the bulbs and allow them to cure in a dry, well-ventilated area for several weeks before storage.
• Pest and Disease Management: While this garlic is generally hardy, it's helpful to be aware of common pests and diseases that can affect garlic. Regularly monitoring your plants for signs of trouble and practicing good garden hygiene can help maintain the health of your garlic crop.
• Easy to Grow: Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, it is relatively straightforward to grow. For best results, use proper fall planting techniques and ensure the cloves are planted deep enough to withstand the frost date. In northern states, where the cold helps stimulate growth, this hardneck garlic will dig deep into the soil, producing a bountiful harvest. Each bulb typically has approx 6-8 cloves per pound, and its adaptability to both northern and southern states makes it a versatile addition to any garden. With minimal care, you can achieve a substantial weight of high-quality garlic per plant, making Georgian Fire a valuable choice for any gardener.
• High Yield: Each bulb of this garlic contains 6-8 large cloves, and the bulbs themselves are substantial in size. This results in a high yield per pound, offering more garlic for your gardening efforts. With a good planting strategy and proper care, you can expect a rewarding harvest that enhances both your cooking and garden.

Culinary Uses

The bold, spicy flavor of it makes it a versatile ingredient in a wide range of culinary dishes. Here are some popular uses:

• Raw: Its intense heat and robust flavor are ideal for raw applications such as garlic aioli, pestos, and salad dressings. A small amount can add a significant punch to dips, salsas, and marinades.
• Roasted: Roasting this garlic mellows its heat and brings out a rich, caramelized sweetness. Roasted garlic can be spread on bread, blended into soups, or used as a flavorful addition to mashed potatoes.
• Sauteed: Sauteing this garlic in olive oil or butter releases its aromatic qualities and enhances its flavor. It is perfect for pasta sauces, stir-fries, and sautéed vegetables.
• Pickled: Pickling preserves the garlic and adds a tangy flavor that can be enjoyed as a condiment. Pickled Georgian Fire garlic cloves are great for antipasto platters, sandwiches, and salads.

Planting Time

It is typically planted in the fall for a summer harvest, similar to other hardneck garlic varieties. Planting in the fall allows the cloves to establish roots before winter sets in, leading to healthier plants and larger bulbs.

Scaping

Hardneck garlic varieties like this garlic produce scapes, curly flower stalks that emerge from the center of the plant. While the scapes are edible and delicious, their removal redirects energy to bulb development, resulting in larger cloves. Harvest scapes when they curl once or twice and use them in culinary dishes like pesto or stir-fries.

Storage and Preservation

How to Store Fresh Garlic

To store fresh this garlic after harvesting in early spring, ensure the green leaves have turned brown and the bulbs are fully cured. Hang the hardneck garlic bulbs in a cool, dry place with good air circulation to preserve their stunning flavor and nutrients. It is known for its intense and full-bodied flavor, can be stored for several months, providing great garlic for roasting or eating raw in various dishes.

Preserving Garlic for Long-Term Use

To preserve this garlic for long-term use, harvest garlic in early spring once the green leaves have turned brown and the bulbs are fully mature. Cure the hardneck garlic bulbs by hanging them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, ensuring the stunning flavor and nutrients are retained. Known for its intense, full-bodied taste, Georgian Fire can be enjoyed raw, roasted, or in salsas, providing great garlic for many months.

Best Practices for Drying and Freezing

Freezing garlic after it's been cured is a great way to keep it fresh and flavorful for a longer time. You can freeze it as whole bulbs, individual cloves (peeled or unpeeled), or minced—whatever works best for how you plan to use it. While it's possible to freeze freshly harvested garlic that hasn't been cured, it's not usually recommended. The higher moisture can make it mushy after thawing, and the flavor might not be as strong.

Why Order From Us?

We proudly offer premium hardneck garlic varieties like Georgian Fire Garlic, carefully cultivated by experienced growers to ensure excellent germination and vigorous growth. Sold by the pound, this Porcelain variety thrives in both fall and spring planting seasons and adapts well to a range of climates. Place your order today to browse our selection of hardneck seed garlic varieties and softneck seed garlic varieties —ideal for cultivating a flavorful and productive garden.

For more information, see our Garlic Resource Center. Our staff have selected dozens of articles, videos, recipes and tips with everything you need to successfully grow garlic bulbs.

** For more information, see our Garlic Resource Center and try out our Garlic Selector Tool to find the perfect garlic for your growing zone and tastes. Or check out all of our Garlic Learning Blogs where our staff have selected dozens of articles, videos, recipes and tips to help you learn how to successfully grow garlic bulbs.**