Turnips, often overlooked in the world of nutrition, offer a range of health benefits that deserve recognition. These root vegetables are a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports collagen production for healthy skin. Turnips are also a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and weight management while promoting a feeling of fullness.

Turnips contain antioxidants that help combat inflammation and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, they provide vital minerals like potassium and calcium, contributing to bone health and regulating blood pressure.

Incorporating turnips into your diet can be a delicious and nutritious way to support overall well-being. Whether roasted, mashed, or added to soups and stews, these versatile vegetables are a valuable addition to a healthy eating plan.

Varieties

Turnips are white root vegetables with a purple blush on the root bulb. There are other varieties, too, such as golden or scarlet red. You can eat the whole thing, including the greens! The flavor profile can be savory, sweet or zesty, and eaten raw or cooked. 

Preparing Turnips

• Serve raw, cut into spears for dipping or slice thin for salads.
• Sauté the root or greens with vegetables like greens, carrots, mushrooms, and onions.
• Roast turnips alone or with other veggies such as Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes.
• Dice the root and add to your favorite soups like potatoes.
• Add some boiled turnips to your mashed potato recipe.
• Thinly slice and bake them to prepare crunchy turnip chips.

Storing

Using a vegetable brush and running water, remove all soil from turnips. Separate the root from the greens for better storage. Turnips can be stored two weeks in the refrigerator or 8 to 10 months in the freezer.

Maple Glazed Turnips & Sweet Potatoes

Makes 4 cups 

Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35 to 50 minutes

Ingredients: 

1 Tablespoon butter, melted 

3 Tablespoons maple syrup 

½ teaspoon cinnamon 

2 teaspoons lemon juice 

3 cups diced turnip 

2 cups cubed sweet potato 

Directions: 

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. 

2. In a small bowl, mix butter, syrup, cinnamon and lemon juice.

3. Mix the turnip and sweet potato pieces in a medium casserole dish. Add syrup mixture and stir to coat evenly. 

4. Cover and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until browned, 20 to 30 more minutes. Serve hot. 

5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours. Makes 4 cups Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 35 to 50 minutes

Source and Recipe: https://foodhero.org/sites/foodhero-prod/files/monthly-magazines/Turnip%20ENG%20Monthly%2023_0.pdf