Description/Taste
Common turnips are made up of edible roots, stems and leaves. Several stems of the plant sprout from the bulbous root into broad green leaves. The root itself is roughly 3 inches in diameter, two-toned with magenta blushed tops and white bottoms that flow into the bulb's tapered thin taproot. Often, the taproot is trimmed before being sold in a supermarket. Turnips have a similar flavor and texture to radishes. Their bone white flesh is firm, crunchy succulent, earthy sweet and peppery.
Nutritional Value
Turnip is high in carbohydrates in the form of dietary or soluble fiber.It is composed of 86-90% water and contains only trace amount of protein and lipids.Its sweet flavor comes from the soluble fiber composed of oligofructose inulin which is a prebiotic,meaning it is a food for the good bacteria in the intestines.It is high in vitamin C,A and some Bs.It is high in potassium content.Because of its very low glycemic index,it is a great food for diabetics and its low calory content makes it a ideal food for weight loss.By the way,GI measures how a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar.
Applications
Turnips are a quintessential cellar vegetable utilized in many classic European dishes. It was Escoffier who embellished the turnip's culinary attributes, elevating its purpose in dishes such as navets farces (stuffed turnips) and Navarin a la Printaniere (Young turnips with Spring Lamb). Turnips can be utilized for fresh eating when young, though they are truly transformed, their flesh softened and their flavors rich and sweet, when cooked. Best cooking methods are braising, simmering, slow roasting and sautéeing. Turnips can also be made into smooth purées and soups. Turnips pair well with other root vegetables such as beets, parsnips and carrots. They also pair with rich meats such as pork, beef, sausages and game. Other complimentary ingredients include butter, cream, cheese, chives, chestnuts, garlic, citrus, mushrooms, parsley, potatoes, tarragon, thyme and vinegar.