Are you questioning how to cook turnips?  Let us show you how to turn up the flavor.

Turnips often get a bad rap, often dismissed and placed in the “forgotten vegetables” bin. But these versatile root vegetables deserve a spot in your regular rotation! 

From their subtly sweet, slightly peppery flavor to their nutritional punch, turnips offer a world of culinary possibilities. Let’s dive into how to cook turnips and unlock their delicious potential.

What Are Turnips

Turnips are root vegetables belonging to the Brassica family, along with broccoli, cabbage, and kale. They’re typically round or oblong, with white or purple skin and white flesh. 

Both the root and the greens are edible, offering different textures and flavors. Young turnips are tender and sweet, while mature turnips can be more pungent.

How To Select Turnips

When selecting turnips, prioritize firmness and weight. You will want to choose turnips that feel heavy for their size, indicating they are dense and full of moisture. We typically opt for smaller to medium-sized turnips because they tend to be sweeter and more tender.

It is important to look for smooth, unblemished skin. If the greens are attached, they should be vibrant and fresh, as this signals freshness and flavor in the root itself.

How To Store Turnips

To maximize the shelf life of turnips, proper storage is essential. Separate the greens from the roots immediately upon bringing them home, as the greens will draw moisture from the roots, causing them to wilt and soften. 

You can store the greens separately in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. They will typically last 2-4 days in refrigeration.

For the turnip roots themselves, remove any excess dirt and place them in a perforated plastic bag or wrap them loosely in a damp cloth. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, where they can remain fresh for several weeks.  Avoid storing turnips near apples or other ethylene-producing fruits, as this can cause them to spoil more quickly.

Related: How To Store Fruits & Vegetables

How To Prep Turnips

Prepping turnips is a straightforward process. Begin by thoroughly washing the turnips under cold running water, scrubbing away any dirt or grit with a vegetable brush. 

Next, trim off the root end and the stem end, and if the greens are attached, separate them for separate storage and preparation. 

If you prefer a smoother texture, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin of turnips (but this is optional). Once peeled, cut the turnips according to your recipe’s needs: cubes, slices, wedges, or matchsticks. 

If you’re using the greens, wash them thoroughly and then chop them into manageable pieces.

Related: How To Properly Wash Fruits & Vegetables

Cooking Turnip Greens

Turnip greens, often overlooked, are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. 

A quick sauté is a common and easy method: heat olive oil or butter in a skillet, add minced garlic or shallots, and then toss in the greens. Cook until they wilt and become tender, typically just 3-4 minutes. 

For a deeper flavor, consider braising the greens by adding a bit of broth or water and covering the skillet to allow them to steam and soften. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten the flavor. 

How to Cook Turnips

There are several ways to cook turnips, each yielding unique results. We will show you how to cook turnips in the three most popular ways: roasting, boiling and braising.

How to Roast

Roasting intensifies the sweetness of turnips and creates a caramelized exterior.

Simply toss the cut turnips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Roast at 400°F for 20-30 minutes, or until tender and golden brown.

Roasted turnips are a great side dish alone or they can be added to roasted vegetable medleys.

Related: Oven Roasted Turnips

How To Boil

Boiling is a simple and quick method. Place the cut turnips in a pot of boiling salted water. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

This is great for making mashed turnips. You can puree and add to soups. Or enjoy it as a simple side dish.

How To Braise

Braising turnips yields tender, flavorful results by combining searing and slow cooking in liquid. 

Start by cutting the turnips into uniform pieces, then sear them in a hot pan with oil or butter until they develop a golden-brown crust. Add aromatics like garlic, onions, or herbs to the pan, then pour in a flavorful liquid such as broth, wine, or even water, ensuring the turnips are partially submerged.

Bring the liquid to a simmer, cover the pan, and reduce the heat. Allow the turnips to braise until they are fork-tender, typically 20-30 minutes, depending on their size. The braising liquid will reduce and concentrate, creating a rich sauce that complements the turnips. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices before serving.

Don’t let turnips remain an overlooked vegetable! With their versatility and nutritional value, they deserve a place on your plate. Experiment with different cooking methods and flavor pairings to discover your favorite way to enjoy this underrated root vegetable. Happy cooking!

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