Turnips are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways to bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking turnips can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook turnips, including boiling, roasting, sautéing, and more.
Choosing the Right Turnips
Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right turnips for your recipe. There are several types of turnips, each with its unique flavor and texture. Here are a few popular varieties:
- Purple Top Turnips: These turnips have a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, making them perfect for boiling or roasting.
- White Lady Turnips: These turnips are sweet and mild, with a crunchy texture that’s great for salads or slaws.
- Golden Ball Turnips: These turnips have a sweet and nutty flavor, making them perfect for roasting or mashing.
When selecting turnips, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid turnips with soft spots or bruises, as they can be bitter and unpalatable.
Preparing Turnips for Cooking
Before cooking turnips, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Peeling and Trimming
Turnips have a thick, waxy skin that’s often bitter and unpalatable. To remove the skin, use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the turnip from top to bottom. Trim the ends of the turnip to remove any tough or fibrous material.
Chopping and Dicing
Once the turnip is peeled and trimmed, chop or dice it into the desired shape and size. For boiling or steaming, chop the turnip into large chunks or wedges. For roasting or sautéing, dice the turnip into small cubes or slices.
Cooking Methods
Now that we’ve covered the basics of choosing and preparing turnips, let’s dive into the different cooking methods. Here are a few popular ways to cook turnips:
Boiling Turnips
Boiling is a simple and easy way to cook turnips. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil.
- Add the chopped turnips to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook the turnips for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the turnips and serve with butter, salt, and pepper.
Roasting Turnips
Roasting is a great way to bring out the natural sweetness of turnips. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the diced turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast the turnips in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re tender and caramelized.
- Serve the roasted turnips hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
Sautéing Turnips
Sautéing is a quick and easy way to cook turnips. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced turnips to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
- Serve the sautéed turnips hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Mashing Turnips
Mashing is a great way to cook turnips, especially if you’re looking for a comforting side dish. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- Boil the chopped turnips in salted water until they’re tender.
- Drain the turnips and mash them with butter, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve the mashed turnips hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
Adding Flavor to Turnips
Turnips are a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Garlic and Ginger: Saute chopped garlic and ginger with the turnips for a flavorful and aromatic side dish.
- Lemon and Herbs: Toss the roasted turnips with lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped fresh herbs for a bright and refreshing side dish.
- Bacon and Onions: Sauté chopped bacon and onions with the turnips for a rich and savory side dish.
Turnip Recipes
Here are a few delicious turnip recipes to try:
- Turnip and Carrot Soup: A creamy and comforting soup made with roasted turnips and carrots.
- Turnip and Kale Salad: A fresh and healthy salad made with roasted turnips, curly kale, and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Turnip and Potato Gratin: A rich and creamy gratin made with sliced turnips and potatoes, topped with a crispy breadcrumb mixture.
| Recipe | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Turnip and Carrot Soup | 2 large turnips, 4 large carrots, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 onion, 4 cups chicken broth | Roast the turnips and carrots in the oven until tender. Sauté the onion and butter in a pot until softened. Add the roasted turnips and carrots, chicken broth, and simmer until smooth. Purée the soup until creamy and serve hot. |
| Turnip and Kale Salad | 2 large turnips, 2 cups curly kale, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar | Roast the turnips in the oven until tender. Massage the kale with olive oil and salt until softened. Toss the roasted turnips, kale, walnuts, and feta cheese in a bowl. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar and serve immediately. |
| Turnip and Potato Gratin | 2 large turnips, 2 large potatoes, 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs, 2 tablespoons butter | Slice the turnips and potatoes thinly. Layer the slices in a baking dish with butter, cheese, and herbs. Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy! |
Conclusion
Cooking turnips is a fun and rewarding experience that can add variety and nutrition to your meals. Whether you’re boiling, roasting, sautéing, or mashing turnips, there are countless ways to bring out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. With these recipes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a turnip expert and enjoying the delicious world of turnips.
What are the different types of turnips and how do they vary in taste and texture?
There are several types of turnips, including white, yellow, and purple varieties. The most commonly available type is the white turnip, which has a mild, sweet flavor and a crunchy texture. The yellow turnip, also known as the rutabaga, has a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor than the white turnip. The purple turnip has a beautiful deep purple color and a slightly sweeter flavor than the white turnip.
In terms of texture, turnips can range from crunchy and firm to soft and tender, depending on the variety and how they are cooked. The white turnip is typically the firmest and crunchiest, while the yellow turnip is slightly softer. The purple turnip is often the softest and most tender of the three. Overall, the type of turnip you choose will depend on your personal preference and the recipe you are using.
How do I choose the freshest turnips at the grocery store or farmer’s market?
When choosing turnips, look for ones that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid turnips that are soft or have visible signs of mold or rot. The skin should be smooth and unblemished, and the leaves should be fresh and green. If the turnips are sold with their leaves attached, make sure the leaves are not wilted or yellowing.
In addition to checking the physical appearance of the turnips, you can also ask the store staff or farmer when the turnips were harvested. Turnips are typically at their peak freshness within a few days of harvesting, so choosing turnips that were harvested recently will ensure the best flavor and texture.
Can I eat turnip greens, and if so, how do I prepare them?
Yes, turnip greens are edible and can be prepared in a variety of ways. They have a slightly bitter flavor and a chewy texture, similar to kale or collard greens. To prepare turnip greens, simply wash them thoroughly and remove any tough or woody stems. You can then sauté them with garlic and olive oil, add them to soups or stews, or use them in salads.
Turnip greens are also rich in nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. They are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious and healthy addition to your diet. Overall, turnip greens are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can add depth and nutrition to a variety of dishes.
How do I store turnips to keep them fresh for as long as possible?
To store turnips, keep them in a cool, dry place with good ventilation. You can store them in the refrigerator, but make sure they are not exposed to moisture or high humidity. If you are storing turnips for an extended period, you can also consider freezing them. Simply peel and chop the turnips, then blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before freezing.
It’s also important to keep turnips away from light, as this can cause them to become bitter and develop off-flavors. If you are storing turnips in the refrigerator, you can cover them with a paper bag or wrap them in a damp cloth to keep them moist and fresh. Overall, proper storage can help keep turnips fresh for several weeks or even months.
Can I use turnips as a substitute for other root vegetables in recipes?
Yes, turnips can be used as a substitute for other root vegetables in many recipes. They have a similar texture to potatoes and can be used in place of potatoes in many dishes, such as mashed turnips or turnip fries. They can also be used in place of carrots or parsnips in soups, stews, and salads.
However, keep in mind that turnips have a stronger flavor than some other root vegetables, so you may need to adjust the amount used and the seasonings in the recipe. Additionally, turnips cook more quickly than some other root vegetables, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Overall, turnips are a versatile ingredient that can add depth and variety to a wide range of dishes.
Are turnips a good source of nutrients, and what are some of their key health benefits?
Yes, turnips are a nutrient-rich food that provides a range of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a nutritious and filling addition to your diet. Turnips are also rich in vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and protect against illness.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, turnips have also been linked to several potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health. The antioxidants and fiber in turnips may also help support healthy digestion and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and certain types of cancer. Overall, turnips are a nutritious and healthy ingredient that can add depth and variety to your diet.
Can I grow my own turnips at home, and if so, what are some tips for success?
Yes, turnips are relatively easy to grow at home, and can be cultivated in a variety of conditions. To grow turnips, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Sow the seeds in early spring or late summer, about 1-2 inches deep and 1-2 inches apart.
To ensure success, make sure the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged, and provide the turnips with regular fertilization. You can also consider using row covers or other forms of protection to prevent pests and diseases from damaging the plants. With proper care and attention, turnips can be harvested in as little as 60 days, providing a delicious and nutritious addition to your homegrown garden.