Page Contents
You can replace these vegetables with kohlrabi
As you navigate the produce aisle or explore your local farmers’ market, you may come across an odd-looking vegetable with a knobby purple or green bulb, long stems, and bright green leaves. This unique vegetable is called kohlrabi, and it belongs to the cruciferous family of vegetables, which includes such familiar members as broccoli, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower (via Healthline).
What is kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi, also known as German turnip or cabbage turnip, has its roots in northern and eastern Europe, including countries such as Germany and Hungary. It is also popular in northern Vietnam and eastern India. In recent years, kohlrabi has gained popularity in the United States due to a growing interest in local and seasonal produce, as well as its versatility, fast-growing nature, and ease of cultivation (via FoodPrint).
Edible parts and flavor profile
One of the remarkable things about kohlrabi is that all of its parts are edible, whether raw or cooked. The flavor of kohlrabi is often described as a combination of peeled broccoli stalks with a hint of peppery radish. Its firm texture and peppery-sweet flavor make it an excellent substitute for a variety of vegetables, including broccoli stalks, cabbage, radishes, potatoes, and turnips (via The Kitchn).
Recipes and culinary inspiration
Kohlrabi’s versatility opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Martha Stewart suggests that you can enjoy both the bulb and the greens of kohlrabi, comparing its flavor to a cross between a radish, jicama, broccoli, and collard greens. When working with kohlrabi, it is best to keep recipes simple so that the vegetable’s crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor can shine through.
Here are some delicious kohlrabi recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Kohlrabi Slaw with Apple and Mint: This refreshing slaw combines the crispness of kohlrabi with the sweetness of apple and the freshness of mint.
- Roasted Kohlrabi with Buttered Hazelnuts: Roasting kohlrabi caramelizes its natural sugars, resulting in a dish that is both tender and slightly sweet. Buttered hazelnuts add a delicious crunch.
- Crispy/Salty Kohlrabi Chips: Slice kohlrabi into thin rounds, toss with olive oil, salt and your favorite seasonings, and bake until crisp. These chips are a healthy and delicious snack.
- Sautéed Kohlrabi with Onions and Cream: This comforting dish features sautéed kohlrabi and onions, finished with a touch of cream for added richness.
- Asian Noodle Soup with Kohlrabi and Tofu: Kohlrabi adds a unique twist to this savory noodle soup, providing a satisfying crunch and a subtle peppery flavor.
Choosing and Storing Kohlrabi
When choosing kohlrabi, Bon Appétit recommends looking for firm bulbs with fresh, unwilted leaves. The bulb should feel firm, similar to a baseball. Also, keep in mind that smaller bulbs tend to be sweeter in flavor.
To store kohlrabi, remove the greens if they are still attached and store them separately. Place the bulbs in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The greens can be stored in a separate plastic bag for up to three days.
The nutritional benefits of kohlrabi
In addition to its culinary appeal, kohlrabi offers numerous health benefits. According to The Guardian, kohlrabi is an excellent source of vitamin C, surpassing even oranges. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties and its role in maintaining healthy connective tissue, teeth, and gums. In addition, kohlrabi is rich in phytochemicals, plant compounds that help prevent cancer, inflammation, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and osteoporosis.
Incorporating kohlrabi into your diet can not only provide a delicious culinary experience, but also contribute to your overall well-being.
Conclusion
Kohlrabi is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can be a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether used as a substitute for other vegetables or as the star ingredient in delicious recipes, kohlrabi offers a unique flavor profile and satisfying crunch. So the next time you come across this gnarly vegetable, don’t hesitate to grab a few and explore the countless ways you can enjoy the wonderful world of kohlrabi.
FAQS
What does kohlrabi taste like?
Kohlrabi has a flavor that can be described as a combination of peeled broccoli stalks with a hint of peppery radish.
Can I eat all the parts of a kohlrabi?
Yes, all parts of the turnip cabbage are edible, including the bulb and the greens. They can be eaten raw or cooked.
What vegetables can I substitute for kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is an excellent substitute for vegetables such as broccoli stalks, cabbage, radishes, potatoes and turnips in many recipes.
How should I store kohlrabi?
To store kohlrabi, remove the greens if they are still attached and store them separately. Place the bulbs in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The greens can be stored in a separate plastic bag for up to three days.
What are the nutritional benefits of kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy connective tissue, teeth, and gums. It is also rich in phytochemicals that help prevent several health conditions, including cancer, inflammation, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and osteoporosis.
How can I include kohlrabi in my diet?
Kohlrabi can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including raw in salads or slaws, roasted to bring out its sweetness, or shredded/roasted for pancakes. It can also be added to soups, stir-fried, or used as a substitute in recipes that call for other vegetables.