Bogatyr garlic is a hardneck variety of garlic. There are eight types of hardneck varieties: Porcelain, Purple Stripe, Marbled Purple Stripe, Glazed Purple Stripe, Asiatic, Turban, Creole and Rocambole. Bogatyr garlic is a Marbled Purple Stripe garlic. Marbled Purple Stripe garlics are distinguished by their bold colors and elongated clove tips. They have fewer cloves per bulb than the standard garlic and most have a much hotter raw taste. Marble Purple Stripe garlics are also rare.

Bogatyr garlic is a garlic defined by its size, color and flavor. Its bulb wrappers are thick, luxuriant and parchment-like. Their coloring a chiaroscuro of purple, violet and white. As you peel away the outer wrappers the purple coloring intensifies, becoming almost a solid mix of purple hues just surrounding the cloves. The clove covers are dark brown with purple streaks. Bogatyr bulbs are small, but the cloves are quite plump. A single bulb will generally house only five cloves. Bogatyr garlic is a powerful storm of fiery heat with a long lasting bite. It is known as one of the hottest hardneck garlic varieties.

Nutritional Value

Bogatyr garlic is known for its high allicin content. Allicin supports positive cholesterol levels, boosts the immune system and enhances circulation.

Serving Ideas

Bogatyr garlic is intensely assertive when raw, thus use sparingly in any raw preparation. Chopping coarsely, mincing and pureeing will release more of its oils providing an even sharper flavor than slicing or leaving it whole. Cooking Bogatyr garlic does mellow the heat, but it doesn't lose any of its true garlic essence. Roast Bogatyr garlic for a the most multidimensional flavor experience. Pair Bogatyr garlic with rich ingredients and those that can readily absorb its flavor. Complimentary pairings include cream, olive oil, starchy pastas, grilled steak, roasted meats and seafood. Acidic fruits and vegetables are also enhanced by Bogatyr garlic's presence.

Geography/History

All of the over six hundred known sub-varieties of garlic grown all over the world came from the ten groups of hardnecks that evolved in the Caucasus Mountains between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Bogatyr garlic's point of origin is of the same region as its wild ancestors. It is native to Moscow, Russia. It is cultivated throughout Europe and regions of North America that experience true, cold winters.

Seasons/Availability

Bogatyr garlic is best harvested mid-late summer.