Garlic is classified as a root crop and is closely related to leeks, onions, shallots, and chives. It is comprised mostly of smaller cloves with bulbs that grow underground. It is sometimes referred to as the “stinking rose” and there are over 300 different varieties of garlic grown all over the world.

Garlic has paper-like skin that is white in color with a very strong flavor, which is probably the most common type of garlic. The Italian and Mexican varieties of garlic have pinkish or purplish colored skins and tend to be a little less abrasive with regards to the flavor.