Kohlrabi Recipes: Delicious Ways to Cook This Versatile Vegetable

Ever wandered down the supermarket aisles, yearning for something fresh and exciting to spice up your weekly meal plan? That’s exactly how I felt when I first encountered kohlrabi. It looked like a curious hybrid of a green apple and a turnip, and the name itself had a foreign allure that piqued my interest. Curiosity got the better of me, so I grabbed one, and I’m so glad I did. This little gem has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m here to share all the delicious ways I’ve learned to cook it.

(Part 1) The Kohlrabi Conundrum: A Beginner’s Guide

I’ll be honest, kohlrabi can be a bit intimidating at first. It’s not exactly a household name, and the prospect of peeling and chopping it might make you want to run for the hills. But fear not, my fellow culinary adventurer, I’m here to guide you through the process, step by step.

1. Kohlrabi: Unveiling the Mystery

Kohlrabi, which translates to “cabbage turnip” in German, belongs to the cruciferous family, a group of vegetables known for their nutritional benefits and unique flavours. Think broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts – kohlrabi is their fascinating cousin. Its bulb, the part we eat, boasts a pale green skin and a creamy white interior that’s both crunchy and delicately sweet. It tastes a bit like broccoli stems, but with a subtle, almost nutty edge. Don’t forget the leaves! Though often overlooked, they’re quite edible, though a bit more bitter than the bulb. I love adding them to soups or stews for an extra layer of flavour.

2. Choosing the Perfect Kohlrabi

When selecting your kohlrabi, look for bulbs that are firm and solid, with smooth skin that’s free of blemishes or bruises. You want leaves that are fresh and vibrant green, signifying freshness. Avoid any kohlrabi that feels soft or squishy, as this means it’s past its prime.

3. Prepping with Precision

Now, let’s tackle prepping, and believe me, it’s surprisingly straightforward. Grab a sharp knife, and start by trimming off the top and bottom of the bulb. Then, peel away the skin using a vegetable peeler, just like you would with a potato.

Once peeled, you have two options. You can chop the kohlrabi into chunks, perfect for stir-fries or soups, or use a mandoline to slice it thinly. I love using a mandoline for salads and stir-fries because it creates beautiful, even slices that cook beautifully.

4. Preserving Your Kohlrabi Bounty

To keep your kohlrabi fresh and ready for culinary adventures, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months, but remember to blanch it first to preserve its texture and flavour.

(Part 2) Kohlrabi Kitchen Adventures: simple recipes to Get You Started

Now, let’s delve into the fun part - cooking! Kohlrabi is a remarkably versatile vegetable, lending itself to a wide range of culinary creations, from light salads to hearty soups and stews.

1. Kohlrabi Salad with Lemon and Herbs: A Burst of Freshness

This is my go-to way to enjoy kohlrabi in its raw glory. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavour. Here’s how to whip up this simple salad:

• Slice the kohlrabi thinly using a mandoline.
• Toss the slices with a vibrant dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. I love to create a medley of fresh dill, parsley, and mint for a truly aromatic experience.
• Serve immediately and relish the vibrant flavours.

2. Roasted Kohlrabi with Garlic and Rosemary: Earthy Elegance

Roasted kohlrabi makes for a delicious and easy side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats and fish. Here's how to bring out its earthy elegance:

• Chop the kohlrabi into bite-sized pieces.
• Toss the pieces with olive oil, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.

3. Kohlrabi Fritters: Crispy Delights

These crispy fritters are a fun and satisfying way to enjoy kohlrabi. Here’s how to create these addictive bites:

• Grate the kohlrabi and squeeze out any excess moisture.
• Combine the grated kohlrabi with flour, eggs, chopped herbs, and spices. I like to add a sprinkle of cumin and coriander for extra depth.
• Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve with your favourite dipping sauce, from a tangy yogurt dip to a spicy sriracha mayo.

(Part 3) Kohlrabi in the Soup Pot: Hearty and Delicious

Kohlrabi adds a delightful touch to soups and stews, introducing a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Here are a couple of my favourite recipes that showcase its magic in this culinary realm:

1. Creamy Kohlrabi and potato soup: Comforting Goodness

This soup is the epitome of comfort food, with a creamy texture and a bright, fresh flavour that will warm you from the inside out. Here’s how to create this comforting bowl of goodness:

• Chop kohlrabi and potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
• Sauté onions and garlic in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the kohlrabi and potatoes, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
• Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
• Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving.

2. Kohlrabi and Carrot Stew with Coconut Milk: A Tropical Twist

This stew is hearty, flavourful, and bursting with vegetables, all brought together by the creamy embrace of coconut milk. Here’s how to make this tropical delight:

• Chop kohlrabi, carrots, and potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
• Sauté onions and garlic in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the kohlrabi, carrots, and potatoes, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
• Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
• Add coconut milk and curry powder, and simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
• Serve with rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

(Part 4) Kohlrabi Adventures Beyond the Ordinary: Exploring New Flavour Frontiers

Now, let’s embark on a culinary adventure and explore some more creative ways to use kohlrabi.

1. Kohlrabi “Pasta” with Pesto: A Healthy Twist

Yes, you read that right! You can use a spiralizer to turn kohlrabi into long, beautiful “noodles,” providing a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pasta. Here’s how to create this delightful dish:

• Spiralize the kohlrabi into thin noodles.
• Toss the noodles with pesto, fresh tomatoes, and pine nuts.
• Serve warm or cold, depending on your preference.

2. Kohlrabi and Apple Slaw: A Refreshing Fusion

This slaw is a refreshing and flavourful side dish that’s perfect for potlucks or picnics, adding a bright touch to any gathering. Here’s how to create this delicious fusion:

• Grate kohlrabi and apples.
• Toss the grated vegetables with a dressing made with apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs. I love to add a pinch of caraway seeds for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
• Serve chilled for a refreshing experience.

3. Kohlrabi and Ginger Stir-Fry: A Quick and Flavourful Delight

This stir-fry is quick, easy, and bursting with flavour, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something healthy and delicious. Here’s how to create this flavourful dish:

• Slice kohlrabi thinly.
• Stir-fry the kohlrabi with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce.
• Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

(Part 5) Kohlrabi for Every Occasion: Recipe Ideas to Impress

Kohlrabi is incredibly versatile, adapting beautifully from everyday meals to special occasions. Here are some recipe ideas that will surely impress your guests:

1. Kohlrabi and Gruyere Tart: Elegant Simplicity

This tart is a beautiful and elegant appetizer or light lunch, perfect for a sophisticated gathering. Here’s how to create this stunning dish:

• Slice the kohlrabi thinly using a mandoline.
• Arrange the slices in a single layer on a tart crust.
• Top with grated Gruyere cheese and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

2. Kohlrabi and Parmesan Risotto: Creamy Luxury

This risotto is a creamy and flavourful dish that's perfect for a special occasion, showcasing the delicate sweetness of kohlrabi. Here’s how to make this elegant risotto:

• Chop kohlrabi into small dice.
• Sauté onions and garlic in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the kohlrabi and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
• Add arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually add warm vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked through and creamy.
• Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Kohlrabi and Beetroot Carpaccio: A Summery Sensation

This carpaccio is a beautiful and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer meal, showcasing the vibrant colours and textures of these vegetables. Here’s how to create this summery sensation:

• Slice kohlrabi and beetroot thinly using a mandoline.
• Arrange the slices on a plate, alternating kohlrabi and beetroot.
• Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill and crumbled goat cheese for a touch of elegance.

(Part 6) Kohlrabi for the Picky Eaters: Winning Over the Crowd

I've found that kohlrabi is a fantastic way to introduce new vegetables to picky eaters. Its mild flavour isn’t overwhelming, and its crunchy texture can be appealing to kids who are hesitant to try new things.

1. Kohlrabi “Fries”: A Familiar Favourite with a Twist

Kids love fries, so why not give them a healthy twist with kohlrabi? Here’s how to make these delightful “fries”:

• Cut kohlrabi into french fry shapes.
• Toss the "fries" with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve with ketchup or their favourite dipping sauce.

2. Kohlrabi and Carrot “Muffins”: A Sneaky Way to Get Your Veggies

These muffins are a fun and healthy way to sneak in some vegetables, making them perfect for breakfast or snacks. Here’s how to create these delicious muffins:

• Grate kohlrabi and carrots.
• Combine the grated vegetables with flour, eggs, milk, and spices.
• Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Kohlrabi “Pizza”: A Fun and Healthy Alternative

You can use thinly sliced kohlrabi as a base for a pizza, providing a fun and healthy alternative to traditional pizza dough. Here’s how to make this unique pizza:

• Slice kohlrabi thinly using a mandoline.
• Place the slices on a baking sheet and top with your favourite pizza toppings.
• Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the toppings are cooked through.

(Part 7) Beyond the Kitchen: Kohlrabi's Nutritional Benefits

Kohlrabi isn't just delicious; it's also a nutritional powerhouse! This versatile vegetable is a good source of fibre, vitamin C, and potassium. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free addition to any meal.

1. Fibre Powerhouse

Kohlrabi is packed with fibre, which is essential for digestive health. Fibre helps keep things moving smoothly and can help you feel full and satisfied after a meal.

2. Vitamin C Boost

Kohlrabi is a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in immune function and collagen production, contributing to healthy skin, bones, and connective tissues.

3. Potassium Power

Kohlrabi contains potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy muscle function.

4. Low in Calories and Fat

Kohlrabi is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for weight management and overall well-being.

(Part 8) The Kohlrabi Journey: My Personal Reflections

Looking back, my journey with kohlrabi has been a real delight. It’s taught me that there’s always something new to discover in the world of food, and that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients can become our favourites.

From simple salads to elaborate risottos, kohlrabi has truly earned its place in my kitchen. It’s not just a versatile vegetable; it’s a reminder that the joy of cooking lies in experimenting, exploring, and finding those hidden gems that make our meals both delicious and nourishing.

(Part 9) Kohlrabi FAQs: Answers to Your Burning Questions

You’ve got questions, I’ve got answers. Here’s a rundown of the most frequently asked questions about kohlrabi:

1. Can I eat the leaves?

Yes, you can eat the leaves, but they tend to be a little bitter. I usually add them to soups or stews, where their flavour can blend in well. You can also try blanching them and serving them as a side dish, though their slightly bitter taste might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

2. How long does kohlrabi last?

Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh, store it in a plastic bag or wrap it in paper towels.

3. Can I freeze kohlrabi?

Yes, you can freeze kohlrabi, but you’ll need to blanch it first. To blanch kohlrabi, bring a pot of water to a boil, add the kohlrabi, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then, immediately plunge the kohlrabi into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain the kohlrabi and pat it dry. You can then freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

4. What does kohlrabi taste like?

Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet flavour that reminds me a bit of broccoli stems, but with a touch more crunch. It has a delicate sweetness that blends well with both sweet and savoury dishes.

5. What are some good ways to cook kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi can be cooked in many ways, including roasting, sautéing, grilling, and even steaming. You can also enjoy it raw in salads and slaws. It’s a versatile vegetable that adapts well to a variety of cooking methods and flavour profiles.

So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to kohlrabi, from choosing the perfect bulb to exploring its nutritional benefits and trying out my favourite recipes. Remember, cooking is a journey, and sometimes the most rewarding experiences come from venturing into uncharted territory. So next time you're at the supermarket, grab a kohlrabi and see where your culinary adventure takes you!