Roasted turnips? Yes, you read that right! Often overlooked and relegated to the back of the vegetable drawer, the humble turnip is ready for its moment in the spotlight. When roasted, turnips transform from their somewhat bitter, raw state into a surprisingly sweet and nutty delight. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about roasting turnips, from selecting the best ones to creating a variety of flavor combinations that will tantalize your taste buds.
## Why Roast Turnips?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s address the elephant in the room: why choose turnips over other root vegetables like potatoes or carrots? Here’s why roasting turnips is a fantastic idea:
* **Unique Flavor Profile:** Roasted turnips offer a distinct flavor that’s both earthy and slightly sweet. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars, creating a depth of flavor you won’t find in other vegetables.
* **Nutrient-Rich:** Turnips are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They’re a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Plus, they’re low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
* **Versatile:** Roasted turnips can be enjoyed as a side dish, added to salads, or even used as a base for creamy soups.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Turnips are typically less expensive than other root vegetables, making them a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
## Selecting the Best Turnips
The key to delicious roasted turnips starts with selecting the right ones. Here’s what to look for:
* **Size:** Choose smaller turnips (about 2-3 inches in diameter). Larger turnips can be woody and bitter.
* **Firmness:** The turnip should feel firm and heavy for its size. Avoid turnips that feel soft or spongy.
* **Smooth Skin:** Look for turnips with smooth, unblemished skin. Minor imperfections are okay, but avoid turnips with deep cuts or bruises.
* **Attached Greens (Optional):** If the turnips have their greens attached, make sure they are fresh and vibrant green. Turnip greens are also edible and can be cooked like other leafy greens.
## Basic Roasted Turnips: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to roast turnips, allowing their natural flavors to shine through.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed (about 1-inch cubes)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help the turnips caramelize and develop a crispy exterior.
2. **Prepare Turnips:** Wash and peel the turnips. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, remove the outer skin. Cut the turnips into uniform 1-inch cubes. Consistent size is important for even cooking.
3. **Toss with Oil and Seasonings:** In a large bowl, toss the cubed turnips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using). Make sure the turnips are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This step is crucial for achieving a flavorful and well-roasted result.
4. **Arrange on Baking Sheet:** Spread the turnips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the turnips instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
5. **Roast:** Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the turnips are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through. Flipping ensures even browning on all sides.
6. **Check for Doneness:** To check for doneness, pierce a turnip cube with a fork. It should be easily pierced with minimal resistance.
7. **Serve:** Remove from oven and serve immediately. Roasted turnips are delicious as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, pork, or fish.
**Tips for Perfect Roasted Turnips:**
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** As mentioned earlier, overcrowding the pan will lead to steamed, not roasted, turnips. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary.
* **Use High Heat:** Roasting at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) is crucial for caramelization and browning.
* **Flip Halfway Through:** Flipping the turnips halfway through the roasting process ensures even browning on all sides.
* **Add Herbs:** Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the turnips during the last 10 minutes of roasting. This will infuse them with a delicious aroma and flavor.
* **Adjust Seasoning to Taste:** Taste the roasted turnips before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your preference.
## Flavor Variations: Beyond Basic Roasted Turnips
Now that you’ve mastered the basic roasted turnips, it’s time to get creative with flavor combinations. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
### 1. Roasted Turnips with Maple Syrup and Bacon
This sweet and savory combination is a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons maple syrup
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the Basic Roasted Turnips recipe.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and maple syrup.
3. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the turnips and toss to coat.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the turnips are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle with crumbled bacon before serving.
### 2. Roasted Turnips with Parmesan Cheese and Garlic
This cheesy and garlicky variation is a simple yet satisfying side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the Basic Roasted Turnips recipe.
2. Add the minced garlic to the bowl with the turnips, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Roast for 20 minutes.
4. Remove from oven and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Return to oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve immediately.
### 3. Roasted Turnips with Rosemary and Lemon
This bright and herbaceous combination is perfect for spring and summer.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the Basic Roasted Turnips recipe.
2. Add the chopped rosemary to the bowl with the turnips, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the turnips are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
4. Remove from oven and drizzle with lemon juice before serving.
### 4. Roasted Turnips with Balsamic Glaze
This adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the Basic Roasted Turnips recipe.
2. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the turnips are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
3. Remove from oven and drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.
### 5. Spicy Roasted Turnips with Chili Flakes
For those who like a kick.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the Basic Roasted Turnips recipe, adding the chili flakes along with the salt and pepper.
2. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
### 6. Roasted Turnips and Apples with Cinnamon
A sweet and savory autumn-inspired dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the turnips and apples with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until turnips are tender and apples are softened.
### 7. Roasted Turnips with Ginger and Soy Sauce
A flavorful Asian-inspired side.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce
* 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
* 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Toss turnips with the mixture to coat.
4. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned, flipping halfway through.
### 8. Roasted Turnips with Brussels Sprouts
A classic pairing of root vegetables.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss turnips and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until both are tender and browned, flipping halfway through.
### 9. Creamy Roasted Turnip and Garlic Mash
A comforting alternative to mashed potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 4 cloves garlic, unpeeled
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/4 cup milk or cream
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss turnips and unpeeled garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until turnips are very tender and garlic is soft.
4. Let cool slightly, then squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
5. In a food processor or using a potato masher, combine roasted turnips and garlic with milk or cream and butter. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
### 10. Roasted Turnip and Carrot Medley with Thyme
A colorful and flavorful side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound turnips, peeled and cubed
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss turnips and carrots with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, flipping halfway through.
## Serving Suggestions
Roasted turnips can be served as a side dish alongside a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas:
* **Roasted Meats:** Roasted turnips pair well with roasted chicken, pork, lamb, or beef.
* **Fish:** Serve roasted turnips alongside grilled or baked fish, such as salmon, cod, or halibut.
* **Vegetarian Dishes:** Roasted turnips can be a great addition to vegetarian meals, such as lentil soup or a vegetarian shepherd’s pie.
* **Salads:** Add roasted turnips to salads for a boost of flavor and nutrients.
* **Soups:** Puree roasted turnips to create a creamy and flavorful soup.
## Storing Roasted Turnips
Leftover roasted turnips can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat.
## Conclusion
Roasted turnips are a delicious and versatile vegetable that deserves a place on your table. With their unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits, they’re a healthy and satisfying addition to any meal. So, next time you’re looking for a new side dish, give roasted turnips a try. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy them!