Nanas Mashed Turnip: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Are you looking for a unique and flavorful side dish that’s both comforting and exciting? Look no further than Nanas Mashed Turnip! This recipe takes the humble turnip and elevates it with the tropical sweetness of pineapple (nanas), creating a dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your taste buds. Forget the bland turnip dishes of the past; this recipe will convert even the most ardent turnip skeptics.
This recipe is more than just a simple mash; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The slight bitterness of the turnip is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the pineapple, while butter and cream add richness and a velvety smoothness. A hint of spice, such as nutmeg or cinnamon, provides warmth and depth, making this dish a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Why Turnips?
Turnips often get a bad rap, but they’re actually incredibly versatile and nutritious vegetables. They are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Moreover, turnips are packed with antioxidants that can help protect your body against disease.
Turnips have a mild, slightly peppery flavor that becomes sweeter when cooked. When mashed, they offer a unique texture that’s both creamy and slightly grainy, especially when combined with other ingredients like butter, cream, and in this case, pineapple.
The Magic of Pineapple (Nanas)
Pineapple, known as ‘nanas’ in many parts of the world, is the star ingredient that transforms this mashed turnip from ordinary to extraordinary. The sweetness of pineapple complements the turnip’s subtle bitterness, creating a delightful flavor contrast. Pineapple also contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
When selecting pineapple, look for one that is fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Avoid pineapples that are bruised or have a musty smell. Fresh pineapple is always the best option, but canned pineapple chunks, drained well, can be used as a substitute in a pinch. However, be mindful that canned pineapple may be sweeter than fresh pineapple, so adjust the amount of sugar accordingly.
Recipe: Nanas Mashed Turnip
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Total time:** 50 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 2 lbs turnips, peeled and cubed
* 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup butter, unsalted
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (or cinnamon)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
**Equipment:**
* Large pot
* Potato masher or electric mixer
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife
**Instructions:**
**1. Prepare the Turnips:**
* Wash and peel the turnips thoroughly. Peeling removes the outer layer which can be slightly bitter.
* Cut the turnips into 1-inch cubes. This will ensure even cooking.
**2. Cook the Turnips:**
* Place the cubed turnips in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
* Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the turnips are fork-tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
**3. Drain the Turnips:**
* Once the turnips are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Excess water will make the mash watery.
* Return the drained turnips to the pot.
**4. Mash the Turnips:**
* Add the butter and heavy cream to the pot with the turnips.
* Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the turnips until they are smooth and creamy. If using an electric mixer, be careful not to overmix, as this can make the mash gummy.
**5. Add the Pineapple and Seasonings:**
* Stir in the diced pineapple, brown sugar, nutmeg (or cinnamon), salt, and pepper.
* Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter mash, or more salt and pepper to balance the sweetness.
**6. Heat Through (Optional):**
* If the mash has cooled down, heat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through.
**7. Serve and Garnish:**
* Spoon the Nanas Mashed Turnip into a serving dish.
* Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
* **For a smoother mash:** Use an electric mixer or a food processor. If using a food processor, be careful not to overprocess the turnips, as this can make them gluey.
* **For a chunkier mash:** Use a potato masher and leave some small chunks of turnip.
* **Add more flavor:** Try adding a clove of minced garlic, a splash of apple cider vinegar, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mash.
* **Make it vegan:** Substitute the butter with vegan butter and the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative.
* **Spice it up:** A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a pleasant kick.
* **Add other vegetables:** Incorporate other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a more complex flavor profile. Roast them alongside the turnips for enhanced sweetness.
* **Sweetness Level:** Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. If using very ripe pineapple, you may need less sugar.
* **Nutty Twist:** Toast some chopped pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them over the mash for added texture and flavor.
* **Herbs:** Fresh thyme or rosemary can add an earthy note.
Serving Suggestions
Nanas Mashed Turnip is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
* **Roasted Chicken or Turkey:** The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory flavors of roasted poultry.
* **Pork Loin:** The mash provides a delicious contrast to the richness of pork loin.
* **Grilled Salmon:** The sweet and savory flavors of the mash enhance the delicate flavor of salmon.
* **Vegetarian Options:** Serve with lentil loaf, stuffed bell peppers, or a hearty vegetable stew.
* **Holiday Dinner:** A perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, offering a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Nanas Mashed Turnip can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
* **To make ahead:** Prepare the mash according to the recipe instructions. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **To reheat:** Reheat the mash gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture.
* **Freezing:** While not ideal, you can freeze mashed turnips. However, the texture may change slightly after thawing. To freeze, let the mash cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 8 servings)
* Calories: Approximately 180-220 kcal
* Fat: 8-12g
* Saturated Fat: 5-7g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 150-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 25-30g
* Fiber: 4-6g
* Sugar: 10-15g
* Protein: 2-3g
*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
Conclusion
Nanas Mashed Turnip is a delightful twist on a classic side dish. The combination of sweet pineapple and earthy turnip creates a flavor sensation that will impress your family and friends. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. So, ditch the boring mashed potatoes and give Nanas Mashed Turnip a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Enjoy this culinary adventure and don’t forget to share your creations! Happy cooking!