Maneuljjong bokkeum (Stir fried garlic scapes)

If you have planted garlic in your garden, then this is probably the time of year you harvest garlic scapes and make pesto out of them. If you are looking for more creative ways to use up your scapes, I have a really simple and delicious Korean garlic scape stir-fry recipe to share with you this week. For many of us who love Korean food, the best part is the tasty banchan (side dishes) that come with the meal. Maneuljjong is a pretty common banchan when you go to a Korean restaurant and is often made at home during the summer when the scapes are in season. Not only is it a great side dish for a summer meal, but it’s also easy to make.

Ingredients:25 garlic scapes
2 Tbsp. olive oil
3 Tbsp. soy sauce
3 Tbsp. water
1¹⁄₂ tsp. honey
1 tsp. sesame oil
¹⁄₄ tsp. sesame seeds for garnish

Directions:
Separate the stems and the scapes. Cut the scapes in half so they will cook evenly.

On medium-high heat, stir-fry the scapes with olive oil for two minutes until they are soft and translucent. 

 Now add in the stems and cook for another minute. 

Stir in the soy sauce, honey and water and turn the heat down to medium-low. Let it cook for two to three minutes until the liquid cooks down.

Remove from the heat and drizzle in the sesame oil. Garnish it with some sesame seeds and hot pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

These can be served both hot or cold, makes a great addition for a summer meal.