I have had the pleasure of growing and cooking with both Red Russian and Russian Red garlic, and I can confidently say that they are distinct varieties with some notable differences. While both belong to the purple stripe family of garlic, they have different characteristics that set them apart.
Firstly, let’s talk about Red Russian garlic. This variety is known for its beautiful purple-striped bulb wrappers and vibrant purple cloves. It has a milder flavor compared to Russian Red, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle garlic taste. Red Russian garlic typically has fewer cloves per bulb, which means you might need to use more cloves when cooking to achieve the desired flavor.
On the other hand, Russian Red garlic is a bit bolder in both flavor and appearance. Its bulb wrappers are usually a deep red color, and the cloves themselves are larger and fewer in number compared to Red Russian. The flavor of Russian Red garlic is stronger and more robust, allowing you to use fewer cloves when cooking while still enjoying a rich garlic taste.
In terms of planting, Russian Red garlic can be more economical as it tends to have more cloves per bulb. This means that you can plant fewer bulbs and still have a decent harvest. On the other hand, Red Russian garlic may require more bulbs to be planted to achieve the desired yield.
When it comes to cooking, both varieties can be used in a wide range of dishes. Red Russian garlic’s milder flavor makes it a versatile choice for adding a hint of garlic to salads, sautés, and sauces without overpowering other flavors. Russian Red garlic, with its stronger flavor, is perfect for those who love the bold taste of garlic in their dishes, such as roasted meats, soups, and stews.
While both Red Russian and Russian Red garlic belong to the purple stripe family, they have distinct differences. Red Russian garlic has a milder flavor, fewer cloves per bulb, and a more subtle appearance with its purple-striped bulbs. Russian Red garlic, on the other hand, has a stronger flavor, larger cloves, and deep red bulb wrappers. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right garlic variety for your culinary needs and gardening preferences.
