How to Cook Turnips: A Simple Guide for Delicious Results

Understanding Turnips

Turnips are a root vegetable that is known for their versatility. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, roasting, baking, and sautéing. They are also a great source of nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when working with turnips:

• Young turnips are the best for eating raw: While turnips can be eaten raw, they are best when they are young and tender. Older turnips can be tough and woody, making them difficult to eat raw.

• Turnips are a great addition to stews and soups: Turnips have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that makes them a great addition to stews and soups. They can be added to the pot along with other root vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to add flavor and texture.

• Turnips can be mashed or pureed: Turnips can be mashed or pureed just like potatoes. They have a slightly different flavor than potatoes, but they are still delicious. Adding a little bit of butter and cream can make them even more decadent.

• Turnips can be roasted or baked: Turnips can be roasted or baked just like other root vegetables. They can be sliced into rounds or wedges and seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs before being roasted in the oven.

• Turnips are a great source of nutrients: Turnips are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. They are also low in calories, making them a great addition to any healthy diet.

Overall, turnips are a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. They are a great addition to stews, soups, and roasted vegetable dishes. Whether you are looking for a healthy side dish or a hearty meal, turnips are a great choice.

Preparing Turnips

When it comes to preparing turnips, there are a few key steps to follow to ensure they are ready for cooking. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Peeling and Cutting Turnips

Before cooking turnips, it’s important to peel and cut them properly. Start by washing the turnips thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully peel the skin off of the turnips. If the turnips have any blemishes or rough spots, be sure to remove them with the knife.

Once the turnips are peeled, you can cut them into whatever shape or size you need for your recipe. Some common options include slicing them into rounds, chopping them into cubes, or cutting them into thin strips. Just be sure to use a sharp knife and work carefully to avoid any accidents.

Storing Turnips

If you’re not planning to use your turnips right away, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh. One option is to store them in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Alternatively, if you have a root cellar, you can store them there for longer periods of time.

Tips for Working with Turnips

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when working with turnips:

• Turnips can be quite hard, so it’s important to use a sharp knife when cutting them.
• If you’re using turnips in a recipe that calls for them to be boiled or steamed, be sure not to overcook them. They should be tender but still slightly crunchy.
• Turnips can be a bit bitter, so you may want to pair them with sweeter ingredients like carrots or apples to balance out the flavor.
• Don’t forget about the turnip greens! They can be cooked and eaten just like other leafy greens, and can add a nice pop of color and flavor to your dishes.

Overall, preparing turnips is a fairly simple process that just requires a bit of care and attention. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to cooking up delicious turnip dishes in no time.

Turnip Recipes

I love cooking with turnips because they are versatile and add a unique flavor to any dish. Here are some of my favorite turnip recipes that are easy to make and take less than 30 minutes to prepare:

Turnip and Potato Mash

This recipe is a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes and takes only 15 minutes to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Instructions
2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped	Boil the turnips and potatoes in a pot of salted water until tender, about 10 minutes.
2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped	Drain the water and mash the turnips and potatoes together with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
2 tablespoons butter	Serve hot and enjoy!
1/4 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Roasted Turnips

Roasting turnips is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this root vegetable. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the turnips into small wedges and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the turnips out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Turnip and Carrot Slaw

This recipe is a refreshing and healthy side dish that takes only 15 minutes to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Instructions
2 medium turnips, peeled and grated	In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
2 medium carrots, peeled and grated	Add the grated turnips, carrots, and parsley to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
2 tablespoons olive oil	Serve chilled and enjoy!
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Turnip Fries

If you’re looking for a healthy alternative to french fries, try making turnip fries instead. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. Cut the turnips into thin strips and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the turnips out on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

These turnip recipes are just a few examples of how versatile and delicious this root vegetable can be. Give them a try and see for yourself!

Roasted Turnips

When it comes to cooking turnips, roasting is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this root vegetable. Roasting turnips brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here’s how to roast turnips to perfection:

Ingredients

To make roasted turnips, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Turnips
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Rosemary (fresh or dried)
• Garlic (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Peel and chop the turnips into bite-sized pieces.
3. Toss the turnips in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and rosemary until evenly coated.
4. Spread the turnips out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast the turnips in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the olive oil mixture before tossing with the turnips.
• Use fresh rosemary if possible, as it has a stronger flavor than dried rosemary.
• If you prefer softer turnips, roast them for a few extra minutes until they reach your desired texture.
• Roasted turnips make a great side dish for any meal, or can be added to salads or soups for extra flavor and nutrition.

Roasting turnips is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this underrated vegetable. With just a few simple ingredients and some time in the oven, you can create a flavorful and healthy side dish that everyone will love. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Mashed Turnips

Mashed turnips are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of meals. They are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. In this section, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make creamy and flavorful mashed turnips.

Ingredients

To make mashed turnips, you will need the following ingredients:

• 7 large turnips, peeled and quartered
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the turnips until tender, which should take about 35 to 45 minutes.
2. Strain and rinse the turnips.
3. Mash the turnips with a fork in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add the milk and butter to the bowl and continue mashing until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips and Variations

• For extra creaminess, you can add a peeled and boiled potato to the mixture before mashing.
• To make the dish even more flavorful, you can add some minced garlic or chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme.
• If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the milk and butter with coconut milk and olive oil.
• You can also experiment with different types of turnips, such as purple-top or white turnips, to add some color and variety to the dish.

Mashed turnips are a versatile and nutritious side dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With this simple recipe, you can easily make a delicious and creamy batch of mashed turnips that will complement any meal.

Turnip Soups

I love making soups with turnips because they add a unique flavor and texture to the dish. Here are a few of my favorite turnip soup recipes:

Creamy Turnip Soup

This creamy turnip soup is a crowd-pleaser and so easy to make. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Amount
Turnips	2 lbs
Carrots	2
Onion	1
Garlic	2 cloves
Chicken broth	4 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Salt and pepper	To taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice the turnips, carrots, and onion.
2. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the vegetables and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
4. Blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Broccoli and Turnip Soup

This broccoli and turnip soup is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Amount
Broccoli	1 head
Turnips	2
Onion	1
Garlic	2 cloves
Chicken broth	4 cups
Salt and pepper	To taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice the turnips and onion.
2. Cut the broccoli into small florets.
3. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the vegetables and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chicken and Turnip Soup

This chicken and turnip soup is a hearty and comforting meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients	Amount
Chicken breasts	2
Turnips	2
Carrots	2
Onion	1
Garlic	2 cloves
Chicken broth	4 cups
Salt and pepper	To taste

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice the turnips, carrots, and onion.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into small pieces.
3. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the chicken, vegetables, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for Making Turnip Soup

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian.
• Add other vegetables like potatoes, celery, or leeks for added flavor and texture.
• Top the soup with croutons, chopped herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Turnip Side Dishes

When it comes to serving turnips as a side dish, there are many options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Roasted root vegetables: Turnips pair well with other root vegetables such as parsnips, beets, and carrots. Cut them into similar sizes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
• Mashed turnips: Similar to mashed potatoes, mashed turnips are a flavorful and healthy alternative. Simply boil peeled and cubed turnips until tender, drain, and mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
• Braised turnips: Braising turnips in a flavorful liquid such as chicken broth or white wine can elevate their flavor and texture. Cut them into wedges or cubes and simmer in the liquid until tender.
• Sauteed turnips and greens: Chop up your turnips into 1″ cubes and cook them in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget about the tops, too. Add the turnip greens at the end to wilt them in the pan, along with pieces of bacon or ham for extra flavor.

Here is a table summarizing the different turnip side dishes and their preparation methods:

Side Dish	Preparation
Roasted root vegetables	Cut into similar sizes, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven
Mashed turnips	Boil peeled and cubed turnips until tender, drain, and mash with butter, salt, and pepper
Braised turnips	Cut into wedges or cubes and simmer in a flavorful liquid such as chicken broth or white wine
Sauteed turnips and greens	Chop up turnips into 1″ cubes and cook in a pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add turnip greens and pieces of bacon or ham at the end

Overall, turnips are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in many different ways. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to find your favorite turnip side dish.

Turnip Nutrition Facts

Turnips are a low-calorie root vegetable that can be a healthy addition to any meal. They are rich in nutrients and provide a variety of health benefits. Here are some of the key nutritional facts about turnips:

• Calories: One cup of boiled turnips contains only 34 calories, making them an excellent choice for those who are watching their calorie intake.

• Fiber: Turnips are a good source of fiber, with one cup of boiled turnips providing over 3 grams of dietary fiber. Fiber can help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full for longer.

• Protein: While turnips are not a significant source of protein, they do contain small amounts of this essential nutrient. One cup of boiled turnips provides about 1 gram of protein.

• Sugar: Turnips contain natural sugars that give them a slightly sweet taste. One cup of boiled turnips contains about 4.6 grams of sugar.

• Vitamin C: Turnips are a good source of vitamin C, with one cup of boiled turnips providing 30% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help boost the immune system and protect against disease.

• Calcium: Turnips contain small amounts of calcium, with one cup of boiled turnips providing about 3% of the recommended daily value. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth.

• Potassium: Turnips are a good source of potassium, with one cup of boiled turnips providing about 10% of the recommended daily value. Potassium is important for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body and can help lower blood pressure.

In summary, turnips are a nutritious and low-calorie vegetable that can be a healthy addition to any diet. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and can help promote digestive health, boost the immune system, and lower blood pressure.

Cooking Variations

When it comes to cooking turnips, there are plenty of variations you can try out to create unique and delicious dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Roasting: Roasting is a popular method for cooking turnips as it brings out their natural sweetness and imparts a lovely caramelized flavor. To roast turnips, simply toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake in the oven until tender and golden brown.

• Mashing: Mashed turnips make a great alternative to mashed potatoes, and are a perfect side dish for roast meats and poultry. To make mashed turnips, boil them until tender, then mash with butter, cream, and salt and pepper to taste.

• Stir-frying: Turnips can also be stir-fried for a quick and easy vegetable side dish. Simply slice them thinly and stir-fry with your choice of seasonings and aromatics, such as garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.

• Gratin: Turnip gratin is a rich and indulgent dish that’s perfect for special occasions. To make turnip gratin, thinly slice the turnips and layer them in a baking dish with cream, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and bubbly.

• Pesto: Turnip greens can be used to make a delicious and nutritious pesto that’s perfect for pasta or as a dip. Simply blend the greens with some garlic, nuts, and Parmesan cheese, and drizzle in some olive oil until you reach your desired consistency.

• Combining with other vegetables: Turnips can be combined with other vegetables such as sweet potatoes and rutabagas to create a colorful and flavorful dish. Simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and roast or boil until tender.

Overall, turnips are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Experiment with different cooking methods and seasonings to discover your favorite turnip dishes.

Storing and Reheating Turnips

When it comes to storing turnips, it is important to keep them in a cold, moist place that is as close to freezing as possible without actual freezing temperatures and approximately 95 percent relative humidity. Here are some tips on how to store turnips:

• Store turnips in a plastic bag or container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Separate the turnip greens from the roots and store them separately.
• Do not wash the turnips before storing them, as moisture can cause them to rot.

If you have cooked turnips that you want to save for later, you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer. Here are some tips on how to reheat turnips:

• To reheat turnips, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat turnips in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the turnips in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated turnips, try sautéing them in a pan with some butter or olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Overall, turnips are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be stored and reheated with ease. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your turnips stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

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