How to Make Turnip Purée, Soup, and Other Delicious Dishes

Discover the Magic of Turnips

Turnips, often overlooked root vegetables that were once highly popular, are experiencing a renaissance today. This exceptional crop, also known as the swede, has a long history in Czech cuisine. In the past, turnips were a staple in the diet not only because of their availability but primarily due to their nutritional value. Over time, however, they were replaced on Czech tables by other crops, especially potatoes. Today, with a renewed interest in traditional foods and healthy eating, turnips are finding their place again in modern cuisine. If you haven't tried turnips yet, it's time to change that. This article will introduce you to several ways to incorporate this tasty and nutritious vegetable into your daily meals.

A Healthy and Tasty Alternative

Turnips are root vegetables characterized by a mild, sweet taste and a rich nutritional profile. They contain many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, essential for the proper functioning of the immune system, and vitamin B6, which supports the nervous system. Turnips are also a source of fiber, important for healthy digestion, and antioxidants, which protect cells from damage. These properties make turnips an ideal choice for anyone mindful of their health and wanting to include more plant-based foods in their diet.

In the kitchen, turnips are very versatile. Their mild flavor, reminiscent of a mix between potatoes and carrots, fits well into various dishes – from soups and side dishes to main meals. Additionally, turnips are very easy to prepare and offer many creative ways to process them. Turnip recipes can become not only a healthy but also a tasty alternative to the usual meals you typically prepare.

Simple and Tasty Turnip Purée

One of the most popular ways to use turnips is to prepare them as a purée. Turnip purée is a great alternative to traditional mashed potatoes and is very easy to make. The result is a smooth, creamy purée that has a slightly sweet taste and is ideal as a side dish to various main courses, or can be served as a standalone vegetarian dish.

How to do it?
Start by preparing several medium-sized turnips, peeling them, and cutting them into smaller pieces. Place these pieces in a pot with salted water and cook until they are soft – this should take about 20 to 25 minutes. Once the turnips are cooked, drain the excess water and start blending them to a smooth consistency. To enhance the flavor, add a few tablespoons of butter and a bit of cream. If you enjoy stronger flavors, you can also add a clove of garlic or a pinch of nutmeg. Season the purée with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

The resulting purée is beautifully creamy, and its mild flavor perfectly complements roasted meat, grilled vegetables, or it can be served with fresh bread as a light vegetarian dish. If you're looking for a healthy and tasty side dish that is also not too high in calories, turnip purée is an excellent choice.

Roasted Turnips

Another excellent way to prepare turnips is by roasting them. Roasted turnips are simple to prepare yet offer a rich and caramelized flavor, making them a great side dish for many meals. This preparation method is ideal for those seeking quick and easy recipes that don't require much time or complicated ingredients but still want to achieve an excellent result.

Preparation method:
Begin by peeling the turnips and cutting them into thin slices or cubes. Spread these pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and mix well to ensure the turnips are evenly coated. Season with salt and add your favorite spices – rosemary, thyme, or freshly ground black pepper work wonderfully. If you like stronger flavors, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Roast in a preheated oven at 200 °C for approximately 25 to 30 minutes until the turnips are golden and the edges are crispy. During roasting, you can stir the turnips a few times to ensure even baking. The resulting dish has a beautiful golden color, and its sweet-savory flavor is the perfect complement to roasted meat, grilled fish, or as part of a warm salad. Roasted turnips are also great as a light snack or dinner, which you can accompany with a yogurt dip or hummus.

Creamy Turnip Soup

If you're a fan of creamy soups, then you shouldn't miss out on turnip soup. This soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious and easy to prepare. Its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor make it an ideal choice for cold autumn or winter days when you need something to warm you up.

How to make creamy turnip soup?
Start by sautéing finely chopped onions in butter until they turn golden. Add chopped turnips and potatoes, which together create a thick and hearty base for the soup. You can also add a clove of garlic or a piece of ginger for a more intense flavor. Pour in vegetable broth and cook until the vegetables are soft – this should take about 20 to 30 minutes.

Once the vegetables are soft, blend the soup into a smooth consistency using a hand blender or stand blender. For a creamier texture, you can add a bit of cream or coconut milk, which will give the soup a gentle exotic touch. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and possibly a bit of lemon juice to enhance its flavor notes.

Serve with fresh bread or croutons and garnish with chopped herbs such as chives or parsley. Creamy turnip soup is a great choice not only as a starter but also as a main course that will fill you up and delight you with its rich and gentle taste.