Purple top turnips are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can add a burst of flavor and color to a variety of dishes. However, many people are unsure about how to prepare them, particularly when it comes to peeling. In this article, we will explore the best ways to prepare purple top turnips, including whether or not to peel them.
What are Purple Top Turnips?
Before we dive into the preparation methods, let’s take a closer look at what purple top turnips are. Purple top turnips are a type of turnip that is characterized by its distinctive purple color on top and white or yellowish color on the bottom. They are a cool-season crop, which means they thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring or fall. Purple top turnips are a popular choice among gardeners and cooks because they are easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 60 days.
Nutritional Benefits of Purple Top Turnips
Purple top turnips are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including:
- Fiber: Purple top turnips are high in dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and support healthy blood sugar levels.
- Vitamin C: Purple top turnips are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and can help protect against oxidative stress.
- Vitamin K: Purple top turnips are a rich source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.
- Potassium: Purple top turnips are a good source of potassium, which can help support healthy blood pressure and promote bone health.
Preparing Purple Top Turnips
Now that we’ve explored the nutritional benefits of purple top turnips, let’s talk about how to prepare them. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Choosing the Right Turnips
When selecting purple top turnips, look for ones that are firm and have a sweet, earthy aroma. Avoid turnips that are soft or have signs of mold or rot.
Washing and Peeling
So, do you peel purple top turnips? The answer is, it depends. If the turnips are young and tender, you can often leave the skin on and simply wash them under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. However, if the turnips are older or have a thicker skin, you may want to peel them to remove any bitterness or toughness.
To peel purple top turnips, simply use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, starting at the top and working your way down. You can also use a paring knife to peel the turnips, if you prefer.
Chopping and Cooking
Once you’ve washed and peeled your purple top turnips, you can chop them up and cook them in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Roasting: Toss chopped purple top turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- Boiling: Place chopped purple top turnips in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
- Sautéing: Heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat and add chopped purple top turnips. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Recipes Using Purple Top Turnips
Here are a few delicious recipes that feature purple top turnips as the main ingredient:
Purple Top Turnip and Apple Soup
This creamy soup is a delicious way to enjoy purple top turnips. Simply sauté chopped onions and garlic in butter until softened, then add chopped purple top turnips, apples, and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the turnips are tender. Purée the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender, then serve hot with a swirl of cream.
Purple Top Turnip and Kale Salad
This refreshing salad is a great way to enjoy purple top turnips in the summer. Simply chop the turnips and kale, then toss with a vinaigrette made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Top with chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Conclusion
Purple top turnips are a delicious and nutritious root vegetable that can add a burst of flavor and color to a variety of dishes. While they can be peeled, it’s not always necessary, especially if they’re young and tender. By following the tips and recipes outlined in this article, you can enjoy purple top turnips in a whole new way.
Final Tips and Variations
Here are a few final tips and variations to keep in mind when working with purple top turnips:
- Use purple top turnips in place of potatoes in your favorite recipes.
- Add chopped purple top turnips to soups and stews for added flavor and nutrition.
- Pickle sliced purple top turnips in vinegar and spices for a tangy snack.
- Use purple top turnips as a topping for salads or soups.
By experimenting with different preparation methods and recipes, you can unlock the full potential of purple top turnips and enjoy them in a whole new way.
Do You Peel Purple Top Turnips?
Purple top turnips do not necessarily require peeling, but it is often recommended to remove the skin before consuming them. The skin can be a bit tough and fibrous, which may not be appealing to some people. However, if you prefer to leave the skin on, make sure to scrub it thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Peeling purple top turnips is relatively easy, and you can use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Start at the top of the turnip and work your way around, applying gentle pressure to avoid gouging the flesh. You can also use a paring knife to peel the turnip, but be careful not to cut too deeply and waste any of the edible flesh.
How Do You Prepare Purple Top Turnips for Eating?
Purple top turnips can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences and the recipe you are using. They can be eaten raw, either on their own or as part of a salad, and they can also be cooked in a variety of ways, such as boiling, steaming, roasting, or sautéing. To prepare purple top turnips for eating, start by washing them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Next, trim the tops and bottoms of the turnips, and peel them if desired. You can then chop or slice the turnips according to your needs, and cook them using your preferred method. Purple top turnips can be cooked whole, halved, or quartered, depending on their size and the recipe you are using. They can also be pickled or preserved in a variety of ways to enjoy throughout the year.
What Are the Health Benefits of Eating Purple Top Turnips?
Purple top turnips are a nutrient-rich root vegetable that offers a range of health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. They are low in calories and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to weight loss diets and healthy eating plans. Purple top turnips are also high in antioxidants and contain a range of phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
The fiber content in purple top turnips can help to support healthy digestion and prevent constipation, while the vitamins and minerals they contain can help to support immune function and overall health. Purple top turnips are also a good source of vitamin C, which is important for healthy skin and mucous membranes, and they contain a range of B vitamins that are essential for energy metabolism and other bodily functions.
Can You Eat Purple Top Turnip Greens?
Yes, purple top turnip greens are edible and can be eaten in a variety of ways. They have a slightly bitter flavor and a chewy texture, and they can be used in salads, sautéed as a side dish, or added to soups and stews. Turnip greens are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, and they contain a range of antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
To eat purple top turnip greens, start by washing them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can then chop or tear the greens according to your needs, and cook them using your preferred method. Turnip greens can be cooked in a variety of ways, including steaming, sautéing, and boiling, and they can be seasoned with a range of herbs and spices to enhance their flavor.
How Do You Store Purple Top Turnips to Keep Them Fresh?
Purple top turnips can be stored in a variety of ways to keep them fresh, depending on how soon you plan to use them. If you plan to use them within a few days, you can store them in the refrigerator, either on their own or in a plastic bag. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources, and check on them regularly to ensure they are not spoiling.
If you plan to store purple top turnips for longer than a few days, you can store them in a cool, dark place, such as a root cellar or a basement. You can also store them in a container filled with sand or sawdust, which will help to keep them moist and cool. Purple top turnips can be stored for several months when kept in a cool, dark place, and they can be frozen or pickled to enjoy throughout the year.
Can You Grow Your Own Purple Top Turnips at Home?
Yes, you can grow your own purple top turnips at home, provided you have the right climate and growing conditions. Purple top turnips prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, and they thrive in cooler temperatures. They can be grown in a variety of containers, including raised beds and pots, and they can be direct-sown in the garden in early spring or late summer.
To grow purple top turnips at home, start by preparing the soil and sowing the seeds according to the package instructions. Make sure to water the soil regularly and keep it consistently moist, and provide the turnips with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Purple top turnips are ready to harvest in about 60 days, and they can be enjoyed raw or cooked in a variety of ways.
What Are Some Popular Recipes That Use Purple Top Turnips?
Purple top turnips can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. One popular recipe is roasted purple top turnips, which involves tossing the turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasting them in the oven until tender and caramelized. Another popular recipe is turnip and potato mash, which involves boiling the turnips and potatoes until tender, then mashing them with butter and milk.
Purple top turnips can also be used in soups and stews, such as turnip and carrot soup, or they can be pickled and preserved to enjoy throughout the year. They can also be sautéed with garlic and herbs as a side dish, or added to salads for a burst of flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, and purple top turnips can be used in a wide range of recipes to add flavor, texture, and nutrition.