Kohlrabi is a popular vegetable that is slowly gaining popularity in the western world. This nutritious and tasty vegetable is a strange-looking root that is a member of the cabbage family. While it may appear exotic and unfamiliar at first, kohlrabi is a versatile, delicious, and healthy vegetable that deserves a place in your diet.
One of the most common questions concerning kohlrabi is what it tastes like. While it looks like a turnip, it has a subtle and sweet flavor that is unique to this vegetable. In this article, we will explore the taste of kohlrabi, how it is prepared, and some delicious recipes you can prepare at home.
An Overview of Kohl Rabi
Kohl rabi is a unique and versatile vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. It is commonly found in various cuisines around the world and is highly prized for its crunchy texture and sweet, mild flavor. This cruciferous vegetable is high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Kohl rabi is a bulbous vegetable that grows above ground and has a pale green or purple skin. It has a crisp and juicy white flesh that resembles the texture of an apple. The taste of kohl rabi is often compared to a combination of broccoli stems, turnips, and cabbage, with a slight sweetness. The flavor is mild and not overpowering, making it an ideal ingredient for a variety of dishes. Whether raw or cooked, kohl rabi provides a refreshing crunch and a subtle flavor that can definitely add a new dimension to your meals.
Nutritional Benefits of Kohl Rabi
Kohl Rabi is a highly nutritious vegetable that is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. One cup (135 grams) of chopped Kohl Rabi contains only 36 calories but provides 2.7 grams of fiber, over 80% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, and significant amounts of vitamin K, vitamin B6, potassium, and calcium. It also contains smaller amounts of vitamin E, folate, magnesium, and phosphorus.
The fiber in Kohl Rabi helps to promote a healthy digestive system and can aid in weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness. The high amounts of vitamin C in Kohl Rabi makes it an excellent immune system booster, while the other vitamins and minerals present in it help to support strong bones, healthy blood circulation, and optimal brain function. Overall, adding Kohl Rabi to your diet is an excellent way to increase your nutrient intake and improve your overall health!
The Flavors and Textures of Kohl Rabi
Kohl rabi is a unique vegetable that belongs to the cabbage family. It has a bulbous shape that resembles a turnip, and the outer layer has a pale green or purple color. Kohl rabi has a crunchy and juicy texture that can be compared to that of an apple or jicama. The inner core of the vegetable is tender and crisp, while the outer layer can be slightly fibrous.
In terms of flavor, kohl rabi has a sweet and nutty taste that is often compared to radishes or broccoli stems. The flavor is mild and subtle, making it a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of ways. Kohl rabi can be eaten raw, sliced into salads, roasted, sautéed, or steamed. It can also be used as a substitute for potatoes, carrots, or turnips in recipes. Overall, kohl rabi offers a unique and enjoyable flavor and texture that is worth trying out in the kitchen.
How to Cook with Kohl Rabi
Kohl rabi is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some simple ways to cook this vegetable:
1. Roasted: Cut kohl rabi into small pieces and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until they are tender and slightly browned.
2. Grilled: Slice kohl rabi into thin pieces and grill them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve.
3. Boiled: Cut kohl rabi into small pieces and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain the water and season with salt and pepper.
4. Stir-fried: Slice kohl rabi into thin pieces and stir-fry them in a hot pan with some oil. Add your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and toss until everything is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions for Kohl Rabi
Kohl rabi is a versatile vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. One serving suggestion for kohl rabi is to simply slice it raw and add it to a salad. Its crispy and mildly sweet taste adds a unique flavor to any salad. Another way to serve kohl rabi is to grate it and mix it with other root vegetables, such as carrots and beets, to create a refreshing coleslaw.
Another great option is to roast kohl rabi. Simply peel it, dice it into small pieces, toss it with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast it in the oven until it’s tender and caramelized. You can also season it with other spices such as paprika or cumin to add more flavor. Roasted kohl rabi makes a delicious side dish that can be served with roasted chicken or fish. Experiment with different serving suggestions to find your favorite way to enjoy this unique and tasty vegetable!
Different Varieties of Kohl Rabi
Kohl rabi is a versatile root vegetable that comes in different varieties, each with its unique characteristics. The most common types of kohl rabi include White Vienna, Blue Vienna, and Purple Vienna. White Vienna kohl rabi has a pale green exterior and a sweet, mild flavor. Blue Vienna kohl rabi, on the other hand, has a bluish-green exterior and is slightly sweeter than the White Vienna variety.
Purple Vienna kohl rabi has a deep purple exterior and a slightly spicier taste than other varieties. When cooked, Purple Vienna kohl rabi retains its beautiful color and makes for a stunning addition to any dish. Additionally, there are other less common varieties, such as Grand Duke and Gigante, which are larger and sweeter than other types of kohl rabi. Overall, the different varieties offer diverse flavors and colors, providing ample options to experiment within the kitchen.
Kohl Rabi Recipes to Try at Home.
Kohl rabi is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of recipes. Its mild, sweet and nutty flavor can be enhanced by cooking it in different ways. One such recipe is simple roasting. You can chop the kohl rabi into bite-sized pieces, toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake it in the oven for 30-40 minutes or until tender. This dish can be enjoyed as a side or a snack.
Another recipe to try is a kohl rabi slaw. Finely shred the kohl rabi and mix it with other grated vegetables like carrots and red cabbage. Add in some lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper, and let the flavors meld together for a few hours. This slaw can be a great addition to any sandwich or served alongside grilled meats. There are many other ways to incorporate kohl rabi into your meals, so try out different recipes and discover which ones you love the most.
The Bottom Line
Kohl rabi may not be the most popular vegetable, but it is definitely worth trying. Its unique taste and texture make it an exciting addition to any dish. It can be eaten raw or cooked, making it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
If you have never tried kohl rabi before, give it a chance! It has a mild, sweet taste that is great for salads or snacking. And if you prefer cooked vegetables, kohl rabi is perfect in soups, stir-fries, and even roasted. So next time you are at the grocery store or farmers market, pick up a kohl rabi and experiment with this underrated vegetable. You may just be surprised at how much you enjoy it!