Delicious Turnip Recipes to Try at Home

Turnips, a humble root vegetable, often get overlooked in the kitchen, but they are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. From soups and salads to roasted or mashed side dishes, turnips can add a unique flavor and a wealth of nutrients to your meals. Whether you’re looking to try something new or make the most out of your garden harvest, these delicious turnip recipes will inspire you to add this healthy vegetable to your regular rotation. Below are some classic and creative ways to prepare turnips for any occasion.

1. Roasted Turnips with Herbs

Roasting turnips brings out their natural sweetness and creates a crispy, caramelized exterior. It’s a simple and flavorful side dish that pairs well with just about any main course.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 medium turnips, peeled and cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the turnip wedges in olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs. If you enjoy garlic, add the minced garlic at this step.
3. Spread the turnips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and tender.
5. Serve hot as a side dish with roasted meats, grilled fish, or any vegetarian entrée.

2. Turnip and Potato Mash

If you’re looking to lighten up traditional mashed potatoes, try combining them with turnips. Turnips add a subtle earthiness and a slightly peppery taste to the creamy mashed potatoes, giving the dish a unique twist.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium turnips, peeled and cubed
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup heavy cream or milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, add the cubed turnips and potatoes, and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until both are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the vegetables and return them to the pot.
3. Add butter, cream or milk, and mash until smooth. Use a hand masher or electric mixer depending on your preference for texture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
5. Serve alongside roasted chicken, steak, or a hearty stew.

3. Creamy Turnip Soup

Turnip soup is comforting and perfect for cooler months. Blending the turnips with other vegetables like potatoes or carrots creates a velvety texture, and adding cream makes it extra indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped turnips and potatoes, and cook for another 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and purée until creamy.
5. Stir in the cream or coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and reheat gently.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

4. Turnip Gratin

Turnip gratin is a delicious twist on a classic potato gratin. The thinly sliced turnips are baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce until golden and bubbly, making it a rich and decadent dish that’s perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 5 medium turnips, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a baking dish.
2. Arrange the sliced turnips in overlapping layers in the dish.
3. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream with garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Once it starts to simmer, remove from heat.
4. Pour the cream mixture over the turnips, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or cheddar cheese on top. For an extra cheesy crust, add Parmesan as well.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gratin pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or a fresh green salad.

5. Pickled Turnips

Pickled turnips are a popular condiment in Middle Eastern cuisine. They add a tangy crunch to dishes like falafel, shawarma, or grilled meats. This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 medium turnips, peeled and sliced into sticks
• 1 small beet, peeled and sliced (for color)
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 garlic clove, smashed
• 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Place the sliced turnips and beet in clean glass jars.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the turnips, making sure they are fully submerged.
4. Let the jars cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.
5. Allow the turnips to pickle for at least 5 days before consuming. They will last for up to 1 month in the fridge and are perfect for adding to sandwiches, wraps, or as a snack.

6. Turnip Fries

Turnip fries are a healthier alternative to potato fries, offering a low-carb, fiber-rich option for those looking to cut back on calories or carbs. They can be baked or air-fried for a crispy, delicious snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium turnips, peeled and cut into fry-shaped sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the turnip sticks with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
3. Spread the turnips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy.
5. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or a spicy mayo.

7. Turnip Slaw

Turnip slaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish, similar to traditional coleslaw but with a slight twist. The turnips offer a mildly peppery flavor that pairs well with a tangy, creamy dressing.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium turnips, peeled and shredded
• 1 carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turnips and carrots.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables and toss until well coated.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled as a side dish for barbecues, sandwiches, or grilled meats.

Conclusion

Turnips are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of creative and delicious recipes. Whether you prefer them roasted, mashed, in soups, or even pickled, turnips can add flavor and nutrients to your meals in exciting ways. Give these turnip recipes a try, and you’ll soon discover how easy it is to incorporate this often underrated vegetable into your everyday cooking. From comfort food classics to light and healthy dishes, turnips are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.