Turnips are an underrated vegetable, but they’re super versatile, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrition. Whether you roast them, mash them, sauté them, or boil them, turnips can be a tasty and healthy addition to your meals. In this guide, you’ll learn how to cook turnips using different methods, tips to make them taste better, and some easy recipes to try at home.
What Are Turnips?
Turnips are root vegetables that are usually white with a purple top. They belong to the cruciferous family, like cabbage, broccoli, and kale. They have a slightly peppery, earthy taste when raw, but when cooked, they become mild, sweet, and tender.
You can eat both the turnip root and turnip greens (the leafy tops), making them a two-in-one veggie. They are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
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How to Choose and Store Turnips
Choosing Turnips:
- Pick small to medium-sized turnips (2-3 inches in diameter). They are sweeter and less bitter.
- Look for firm, smooth, and heavy turnips with no soft spots or blemishes.
- If they have greens attached, the greens should be vibrant and fresh, not wilted.
Storing Turnips:
- Roots: Store in the fridge in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks.
- Greens: Remove them from the roots and store separately. Use them within 3–4 days for best taste.
Preparing Turnips for Cooking
- Wash thoroughly under running water.
- Peel the skin with a vegetable peeler if the skin is tough (common in older/larger turnips).
- Chop or slice based on the recipe – cubes, wedges, slices, or mash.
How to Cook Turnips – 6 Popular Ways
1. Boiled Turnips
Boiling is the easiest and fastest way to cook turnips.
Steps:
- Peel and dice the turnips.
- Place them in a pot and cover with water.
- Add salt (optional) and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes until fork-tender.
- Drain and serve with butter, herbs, or mash them.
Tip: Mix with potatoes when boiling to make a milder mash.
2. Roasted Turnips
Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them crispy edges.
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut peeled turnips into cubes or wedges.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Optional: Add garlic or parmesan cheese in the last 10 minutes for extra flavor.
3. Mashed Turnips
A healthy alternative to mashed potatoes.
Steps:
- Boil turnips (and optionally potatoes) until soft.
- Drain and mash using a potato masher or hand blender.
- Add butter, cream, salt, pepper, and any seasoning you like.
Flavor boost: Add roasted garlic or a bit of sour cream.
4. Sautéed Turnips
Quick and easy method for a side dish.
Steps:
- Slice turnips into thin rounds or small cubes.
- Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add turnips and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
Variation: Add turnip greens for a complete dish.
5. Steamed Turnips
Simple and keeps nutrients intact.
Steps:
- Cut turnips into chunks.
- Place in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover and steam for 10–12 minutes until soft.
- Add a pinch of salt and a pat of butter.
6. Turnip Soup
Turnips make a great addition to vegetable soups and creamy purees.
Basic Turnip Soup:
- Sauté onions and garlic in butter.
- Add chopped turnips, carrots, and potatoes.
- Pour in vegetable or chicken broth.
- Simmer until vegetables are soft.
- Blend until smooth and add cream or milk.
Seasoning ideas: Nutmeg, black pepper, cumin, or dill.
How to Cook Turnip Greens
Don’t throw away those leafy tops! Turnip greens are delicious and full of vitamins.
Sautéed Turnip Greens:
- Wash greens thoroughly and chop.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic or onions.
- Add greens and sauté until wilted (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add salt, pepper, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Tips to Make Turnips Taste Better
- Mix with potatoes: Reduces bitterness.
- Roast them: Caramelizes their natural sugars.
- Add spices: Try cumin, curry powder, smoked paprika, or nutmeg.
- Use butter or cream: Creaminess balances the earthy flavor.
- Choose small turnips: They’re sweeter and more tender.
Easy Turnip Recipe Ideas
- Turnip Hash Browns – Grated turnip mixed with egg and fried.
- Turnip & Potato Gratin – Baked in layers with cheese and cream.
- Turnip Fries – Baked or air-fried as a low-carb snack.
- Curried Turnip Mash – With turmeric and coconut milk.
- Turnip and Lentil Soup – Great for vegans.
Nutritional Benefits of Turnips
Turnips are:
- Low in calories
- High in fiber
- Rich in vitamin C
- Good for digestion and immunity
- A smart choice for diabetic-friendly diets
Conclusion
Learning how to cook turnips opens up a world of healthy and delicious options in your kitchen. Whether you boil, roast, mash, or sauté them, turnips are flexible enough to match your taste and cooking style. Try different methods, combine them with other vegetables, and don’t forget to use the greens too!
