Turnip Recipes: Delicious Ways to Cook Turnips and Greens

Ah, turnips! They're often relegated to the back of the vegetable drawer, overshadowed by their more glamorous cousins. But I'm here to sing the praises of this humble root vegetable! Turnips are a powerhouse of flavour and nutrition, and their versatility in the kitchen knows no bounds. From comforting soups to refreshing salads, there's a turnip recipe for every palate and occasion. Plus, don't forget those lovely greens! They're a nutritional powerhouse just waiting to be explored.

(Part 1) Getting to Know the Turnip: A Root Vegetable's Tale

Before we delve into the culinary delights, let's take a moment to appreciate the humble turnip. It's a member of the Brassica family, which means it's related to other culinary stars like cabbage, kale, and broccoli. This family ties explain the slightly peppery, earthy notes that can be found in turnips. But don't let that intimidate you! The flavour is quite mild and can be easily enhanced with a touch of sweetness or a kick of spice.

You'll be surprised to discover how nutritious this seemingly simple vegetable truly is. Packed with vitamin C and K, along with fibre and antioxidants, turnips are a healthy addition to any diet. And for those of you watching your blood pressure, rejoice! Turnips are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure levels.

Choosing the Right Turnip: A Guide for Picking Perfection

When you're at the market, select turnips that are firm to the touch, with smooth skin and no signs of damage. A vibrant colour is a sign of freshness – the more vibrant the colour, the better. Don't worry about the size – small or large, they'll all work in your recipes. And if you happen to see some purple turnips, don't hesitate to grab them! They tend to have a slightly sweeter flavour than their white counterparts.

Storing Turnips: Keeping Them Fresh and Ready to Use

Turnips can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator, wrapped well in plastic wrap, and they'll happily hang around for up to a month. Just remember to give them a little peek every now and then, so they don't get forgotten in the back of the crisper drawer!

(Part 2) Turning Your Turnips into Tasty Treats: Recipes for Every Occasion

Alright, now that we're all acquainted with our root vegetable star, it's time to get cooking! Turnips are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple side dishes to elegant appetizers. Here are a few of my favourite ways to transform this humble root into culinary delights.

roasted turnips with Herbs and Garlic: A Simple and Delicious Side Dish

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, yet utterly delicious. It's a fantastic way to bring out the natural sweetness of the turnip and add a touch of aromatic flavour.

• First, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
• Next, peel and cube your turnips, ensuring all the cubes are roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Toss the cubes with a generous drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, and a medley of your favourite herbs. I'm partial to thyme, rosemary, and a generous pinch of minced garlic.
• Spread the seasoned turnips on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they're tender and slightly caramelized. The edges should have a lovely golden hue.

Serve these roasted beauties as a delightful side dish alongside roasted chicken or fish, or add them to a hearty salad for a satisfying meal. You can even get creative and use them as a topping for grilled cheese sandwiches for a gourmet twist!

turnip mash: A Creamy and Healthy Alternative to mashed potatoes

Who says mashed potatoes are the only way to go? Turnip mash is a delicious and healthy alternative that's perfect for a comforting meal. It's creamy, light, and surprisingly satisfying.

• Peel and boil your turnips until they're tender, but not mushy. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork – it should glide through easily.
• Drain the water and mash the turnips with a fork, potato masher, or even a food processor. If you prefer a smooth consistency, a food processor will give you the best results.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a little bit of butter or cream for a richer flavour. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese can add another layer of flavour and richness.

Turnip mash is a great side dish for roasted meats, grilled fish, or even a simple omelette. You can even get creative and add other ingredients, such as chopped herbs, toasted nuts, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

(Part 3) Making the Most of Turnip Greens: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Now, let's talk about those delightful greens! Don't toss those leaves away – they're a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals. And, they can be surprisingly delicious when cooked right.

Steamed Turnip Greens: Simple and Healthy

This is a classic method for enjoying the flavour of turnip greens. It's simple, healthy, and allows the greens to shine in their natural form.

• Rinse the greens thoroughly and remove any tough stems. It's best to use the younger, tender greens for the best flavour.
• Steam the greens for about 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still retain a slight crispness. Overcooked greens will become mushy and lose their vibrant colour.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

You can add a bit of garlic or onion to the steaming water for added flavour. And, if you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the finished greens. Steamed turnip greens are a great side dish for any meal, especially those with a hearty flavour profile.

Turnip Greens Salad: A Light and Refreshing Delight

This salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of turnip greens while adding a refreshing touch to your meal.

• Wash and chop the greens into bite-sized pieces. Aim for a mix of larger pieces and smaller pieces for texture.
• Toss the greens with a vinaigrette dressing. I'm partial to a light and tangy dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. But feel free to experiment with your favourite vinaigrette recipe.
• Add other ingredients, such as chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, or crumbled feta cheese.

You can also add cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and a more filling salad. Turnip greens salads are a refreshing accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish, or they can be a light and satisfying lunch option.

(Part 4) Turnip Recipes: A Feast for the Senses

Let's move on to some more specific and detailed recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. These are a few of my personal favourites that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

turnip soup with Apple and Ginger: A Warm and Comforting Delight

This soup is both comforting and healthy, with the perfect balance of sweet and savoury flavours. It's a wonderful choice for a chilly evening or a light lunch.

• Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in olive oil until softened. You want to bring out the fragrant aroma of the ginger, so don't rush this step.
• Add diced turnips and apples, and cook for a few minutes until the turnips start to soften. The apples will release their sweetness as they cook.
• Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the turnips and apples are tender.
• Puree the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender.
• Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving for a beautiful presentation and a touch of acidity.

Turnip and Carrot Gratin: A Creamy and Cheesy Delight

This gratin is perfect for a special occasion or a cosy dinner. It's creamy, cheesy, and simply delightful. The combination of turnips and carrots adds a sweetness that pairs perfectly with the richness of the cheese.

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
• Peel and slice your turnips and carrots. Aim for slices that are roughly the same thickness for even cooking.
• Layer the slices in a baking dish, alternating between turnips and carrots.
• Pour over a béchamel sauce (or use a store-bought version). A béchamel sauce adds a creamy texture and a touch of flavour that complements the turnips and carrots beautifully.
• Sprinkle with grated cheese, such as Gruyère or cheddar.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the gratin is golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned on top.

Serve hot and enjoy with a fresh green salad. This dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

(Part 5) Turnip Recipes: From the Pan to the Plate: Weeknight Wonders

Here are a few more recipes to add to your culinary repertoire. These dishes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, as they're quick and easy to prepare without compromising on flavour.

Turnip and Sausage Hash: A Hearty and Satisfying Meal

This hearty hash is a great way to use up leftover sausage and create a satisfying meal. It's a wonderful way to start the day or enjoy a casual dinner.

• Dice turnips and potatoes. Make sure to use a mix of small and large pieces for a variety of textures.
• Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil. Don't be shy with the garlic – it adds a lovely depth of flavour.
• Add the diced turnips and potatoes, and cook until softened.
• Crumble in leftover sausage and cook until heated through.
• Season with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs.

Serve with a fried egg on top for a complete meal. You can also add other ingredients like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a more complex flavour profile.

Turnip and chickpea curry: A Flavourful and Satisfying Dish

This curry is a flavourful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. It’s packed with protein and flavour, and it's surprisingly easy to make.

• Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in olive oil until softened.
• Add diced turnips and chickpeas, and cook for a few minutes until the turnips start to soften.
• Pour in coconut milk, curry powder, and your favourite spices. I like to add a touch of turmeric, cumin, and coriander for a warm and complex flavour.
• Simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the turnips are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Serve over rice or naan bread. This curry is a wonderful dish to share with friends and family, and it's sure to become a favourite.

(Part 6) Turnip Recipes: A culinary journey: Exploring Unique Flavours

Let's embark on a culinary adventure with some unique and interesting turnip recipes that will challenge your taste buds and expand your culinary horizons. These dishes are perfect for those who love to experiment and try new things.

Turnip and Goat Cheese Tart: An Elegant and Sophisticated Treat

This tart is a sophisticated and elegant dish that’s perfect for a dinner party. It's a beautiful and delicious way to showcase the versatility of turnips.

• Make a simple pastry crust (or use a store-bought one).
• Blanch and slice turnips thinly.
• Spread a layer of goat cheese on the crust.
• Arrange the sliced turnips on top of the goat cheese.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the turnips are tender.

Serve warm with a salad. This tart is a stunning centerpiece for any meal and will surely impress your guests.

Turnip and Fennel Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A Light and Refreshing Delight

This salad is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavour. It's a beautiful and healthy way to enjoy the sweetness of turnips and the anise flavour of fennel.

• Shave turnips and fennel thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
• Combine the shaved vegetables with a citrus vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and orange zest.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pistachios for extra crunch.

Serve as a side dish or a light lunch. This salad is perfect for a warm day or a lighter meal.

(Part 7) Turnip Recipes: The Sweet Side: Unexpected Delights

Who says turnips can’t be sweet? This root vegetable can be used in desserts to add a unique twist and a touch of flavour. These recipes will challenge your preconceptions about turnips and show you that they can be just as delicious in sweet dishes as they are in savoury ones.

Spiced Turnip and Apple Crumble: A Warm and Comforting Dessert

This crumble is a comforting and delicious dessert that’s perfect for a chilly evening. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover turnips and apples, and it's sure to become a favourite among your family and friends.

• Dice turnips and apples.
• Toss the diced vegetables with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
• Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
• Make a crumble topping with flour, oats, butter, and sugar.
• Sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit mixture.
• Bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Turnip and Ginger Cake: A Moist and Flavorful Treat

This cake is moist, flavorful, and surprisingly delicious. The turnips add a subtle sweetness and a unique texture to the cake, while the ginger adds a warm and spicy note.

• Grate turnips finely.
• Combine the grated turnips with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, ginger, and spices.
• Bake in a loaf pan or bundt pan.

Serve with a simple glaze or a dollop of whipped cream.

(Part 8) Turnip Recipes: A Family Affair: Engaging the Whole Family

Looking for fun and easy recipes to get the whole family involved? Turnips are a fantastic ingredient for family meals, as they're versatile and can be enjoyed by everyone.

Turnip and Cheese Fritters: A Fun and Easy Snack or Appetizer

These fritters are a fun and easy snack or appetizer that the whole family can help prepare. They're perfect for a casual gathering or a simple weeknight meal.

• Grate turnips and mix them with flour, eggs, cheese, and herbs.
• Fry spoonfuls of the mixture in hot oil until golden brown.

Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice. You can use a variety of cheeses for a unique flavour profile, and the herbs can be tailored to your family's preferences.

Turnip and Potato Hash Brown: A Classic Breakfast with a Twist

This is a classic breakfast dish with a twist. It's a hearty and satisfying way to start the day, and it's a great way to use up leftover turnips.

• Grate turnips and potatoes together.
• Sauté the grated vegetables in olive oil until golden brown and crispy.

Serve with your favourite breakfast toppings, like bacon, eggs, or avocado. This dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick and easy breakfast during the week.

(Part 9) Turnip Recipes: The Nutritional Advantage: A Healthful Choice

Beyond their deliciousness, turnips offer a wealth of nutritional benefits. They're a low-calorie, low-fat vegetable that's packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre, making them a healthy choice for people of all ages.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Closer Look

As you can see, turnips are a good source of vitamins C and K, fibre, potassium, and antioxidants. They’re also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

1. Are all turnips the same?

Not exactly. While most turnips have a similar mild, slightly sweet flavour, there are some variations. Purple turnips tend to be sweeter than white turnips, and some varieties have a slightly peppery taste. Experiment with different types to find your favourites!

2. How long do turnips last?

Turnips can last for up to two weeks in a cool, dry place, or up to a month in the refrigerator if wrapped well. But, always check for any signs of spoilage before using.

3. Can I eat the turnip leaves?

Absolutely! Turnip greens are a nutritional powerhouse. They can be eaten raw, but are best cooked for a more palatable texture.

4. What goes well with turnips?

Turnips pair well with a variety of flavours, including garlic, onions, ginger, herbs, spices, apples, citrus fruits, cheese, and nuts.

5. What can I do with leftover turnips?

Leftover turnips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can use them in soups, stews, salads, or even add them to your next stir-fry. Get creative and see what you can come up with!

So there you have it! Turnips are a versatile and delicious vegetable that deserves a place on your dinner table. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and tasty meal, give these recipes a try. You won’t be disappointed!