Which Garlic Goes with What? A Flavor Pairing Guide
When it comes to cooking with garlic, not all varieties are created equal. Just like wines or heirloom tomatoes, different types of garlic have distinct flavor profiles that can elevate specific dishes in unique ways.
At Southwest Garlic Co., we grow Certified Naturally Grown heirloom garlic that offers rich diversity—from spicy to mellow, bold to buttery. Below is a flavor guide to help you pair the right garlic variety with your favorite meals.
1. Rocambole Garlic (Spanish Roja)
Flavor Profile: Rich, deep, and slightly sweet when roasted. Strong raw flavor.
Best With:
Roasted meats (lamb, beef, pork)
Garlic bread and aioli
Stir-fries and sautéed greens
Roasted garlic spreads
Rocamboles have a full-bodied taste that holds up well under heat but also shines raw in dips and spreads.
2. Porcelain Garlic (Music)
Flavor Profile: Strong, clean heat with a long-lasting bite. Very pungent raw.
Best With:
Chili, stews, and hearty soups
Garlic mashed potatoes
Pasta sauces (especially tomato-based)
Porcelains have large cloves and intense flavor, making them ideal for bold dishes where garlic is the star.
3. Purple Stripe Garlic (Chesnock Red)
Flavor Profile: Sweet and complex, especially when roasted.
Best With:
Roasted vegetables
Baked fish or chicken
Salad dressings and vinaigrettes
Purple Stripe varieties caramelize beautifully, lending a mellow sweetness that balances savory flavors.
4. Artichoke Garlic (Lorz Italian)
Flavor Profile: Mild to moderate flavor, slightly nutty and earthy.
Best With:
Everyday cooking (soups, stir-fries, eggs)
Garlic butter for bread or seafood
Garlic rice or risotto
Artichokes are your “go-to” garlic—easy to use, long-storing, and versatile.
5. Creole Garlic (Rossa Di Sulmona)
Flavor Profile: Rich, smooth, and slightly spicy with a hint of smokiness. Builds heat without overwhelming.
Best With:
Roasted meats
Incorporated into sauces and rubs
Grilled shrimp or seafood
Spiced rice dishes or paella
Creole garlic has a unique depth and subtle heat that complements bold, spicy dishes without competing for attention.
Pro Tip: Roast for Richness
If you're not sure which variety to use, roast a few cloves from different bulbs and do a taste test. Roasting brings out the natural sugars and mellows the bite—perfect for experimenting and finding your personal favorite.
Closing Thoughts
Using the right garlic variety can completely transform a dish—from sharp and assertive to mellow and sweet. With our Certified Naturally Grown heirloom garlic, you’re not just adding garlic—you’re adding depth, heritage, and real flavor to your meals.
Want to try a few different varieties? Check out our Garlic Sampler!