storage - purchase Allium sativum is the smooth cousin at the flavor reunification .

If you ’ve only cook with supermarket clove , you ’re missing out on the real political party . There ’s a whole underground shot of Allium that backpack more biff , more sweetness , more fire — sometimes all in one bite .

We ’re talking garlic ’s funkier , sassier relatives . Ones with names like rocambole , elephant , and Siberian hardneck . Some are larder and mellowed . Others bite like a dragon with a score .

These 12 varieties are n’t just tasty — they’re leisurely to grow , therapeutic well , and make your kitchen smell like a five - star secret . They ’re the cloves your pasta has been beg for .

It ’s fourth dimension to grind past the formative mesh topology traveling bag and discover the sheer bulbs your spice stand deserves . Garlic will never be canonical again .

Elephant Garlic

Elephant Garlic is a gentle hulk in the allium family . Its large Syzygium aromaticum and meek smack make it an excellent choice for those who find oneself regular garlic too acute . Despite its name , Elephant Garlic is more closely related to leek than garlic . It ’s perfect for roasting , as the lenience becomes creamy and slightly sweet . This genus Allium ’s telling size and subtle mouthful have made it popular among chef seeking a distinctive twist on traditional garlic sweetheart .

Rocambole Garlic

If you desire a ail with character , Rocambole Garlic might be your pick . bang for its robust , complex flavor , it offers a depth that store - bought garlic often lack . Rocambole ’s easy - to - peel tegument and rich feel have made it a favorite among culinary expert . The cloves possess a wind of sweetness , adding layers to any dish . Harvesting Rocambole Garlic can play joyfulness to any gardener , as its growth is as rewarding as its taste .

Green Garlic

A springtime delight , Green Garlic offers a refreshing , soft garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables . Its young shoot are tender and redolent . Unlike mature Allium sativum , Green Garlic is glean before the bulb fully develops , add it a delicate , less pungent gustatory perception . It is complete in soups and salads . Chefs love its versatility , often using it in place of scallions for a unique take on familiar formula .

Italian Red Garlic

Italian Red Garlic , with its vibrant color and rich perceptiveness , is a culinary treasure . Its spectacular appearance play off its bluff flavor , puddle it a standout in any dishful . This garlic variety is known for its high allicin content , which contributes to its potent , spicy taste . It ’s a front-runner for alimentary paste dishes and Italian cuisine . Grown in the Mediterranean , Italian Red Garlic ’s rich flavor tells the story of sun - drenched landscapes and time - honored tradition .

Society Garlic

Though not a true ail , Society Garlic tender a pleasantly mild garlic flavor and sensational empurpled blooms that add lulu to any garden . Considered an cosmetic plant , Society Garlic ’s eatable flowers and leaves are used in salads to channel a patrician garlic taste . It ’s perfect for those who prefer subtlety . This plant ’s versatility extends to landscape gardening , making it both a culinary and aesthetic choice for garden enthusiasts .

Korean Red Garlic

Korean Red Garlic stands out with its fiery savor and vibrant coloration . Known for its raciness , it ’s beloved in Korean cuisine for add deepness to dishes . This garlic variety is a ball of fire in terms of flavor , with a heat energy that mellows when cooked . It ’s often pickled or used in kimchi . The robust taste of Korean Red Garlic can elevate any savory stunner , making it a kitchen basic for spiciness lover .

Wild Ramps

Wild Ramps , also known as unfounded Allium porrum , bestow a garlicky - Allium cepa flavor that ’s both unique and exciting . Their light time of year makes them a sought - after delicacy . With spacious green leaf and tenderise bulbs , ramp are often foraged in the wild , adding an adventurous twist to culinary endeavors . Chefs prize them for their ability to transform simple knockout into sophisticated cosmos . Sautéing Ramps take out their sweetened , rich flavor .

Creole Garlic

Creole Garlic is perfect for those who thirst a touching of heat in their dishes . Its spicy kick and unique crimson hide make it a visually likeable choice . Originating from Louisiana , Creole Garlic ’s flavor is as vibrant as its heritage , bringing warmth and spice up to every sharpness . The bold discernment of Creole Garlic pair well with traditional Creole and Cajun dish , enhancing flavors with its robust profile .

Persian Star Garlic

Persian Star Garlic trance with its striking visual aspect and rich nip . The star - pattern tegument hints at the flavorful cloves within . This heirloom smorgasbord tender a balanced taste , conflate subtle heating plant with a touch of sweetness . It ’s various , enhancing both simple and complex dishes . With its alien name and appearance , Persian Star Garlic adds a touch of elegance and intrigue to any culinary origination .

Turban Garlic

Turban Garlic is known for its former harvest and unique bulb physical body , resemble a turban . Its prompt development makes it a darling among gardeners . The savor of Turban Garlic is assertive yet pleasant , offer a delightful puncher in culinary coating . It ’s splendid for brisk or roast preparations . Its strange show and racy flavor make Turban Garlic a conversation starter , realise a special place in both garden and kitchens .

Silver Rose Garlic

Silver Rose Garlic is both beautiful and flavorful , with a delicate rose chromaticity that arrange it apart . Its meek , sweet flavor is ideal for in the altogether app . This garlic kind is often used in Mediterranean cuisine , where its aristocratical gustatory perception enhances without overpowering . It ’s perfect for garlic - infused oils . Silver Rose Garlic ’s optical collection and subtle savor make it a favorite for elegant dish aerial , showcasing its beauty and taste .

Bogatyr Garlic

Bogatyr Garlic boasts a bold feel that require tending . Originating from Eastern Europe , it ’s known for its large clove and live presence . Its rich taste makes it ideal for hearty peach , offering a fiery punch that mellows as it fix . It ’s often used in stews and roasted meats . The name Bogatyr , meaning “ hero , ” reflects its strong nip and vigorous ontogenesis , making it a redoubtable addition to any kitchen .

12 Lesser-Known Alliums That Taste Better Than Store-Bought Garlic

Elephant Garlic

© Gurneys

Elephant Garlic

Rocambole Garlic

© Gardener’s Supply

Rocambole Garlic

Green Garlic

© Garden Betty

Green Garlic

Italian Red Garlic

© Gardener’s Path

Italian Red Garlic

Society Garlic

© Fast Growing Trees

Society Garlic

Korean Red Garlic

© Korean Bapsang

Korean Red Garlic

Wild Ramps

© Wild Edible

Wild Ramps

Creole Garlic

© Filaree Farm

Creole Garlic

Persian Star Garlic

© Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds

Persian Star Garlic

Turban Garlic

© Australian Garlic

Turban Garlic

Silver Rose Garlic

© Plantcetera

Silver Rose Garlic

Bogatyr Garlic

© Urban Farmer

Bogatyr Garlic