When it comes to cooking with turnips, there’s often a lot of confusion about whether or not to peel them. This is especially true for purple turnips, which have a beautiful, deep color that can add a pop of color to any dish. But do you need to peel purple turnips before using them in your recipes? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some tips for preparing and cooking with purple turnips.
What are Purple Turnips?
Before we dive into the question of whether or not to peel purple turnips, let’s take a closer look at what they are. Purple turnips are a type of root vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. They have a sweet, slightly peppery flavor and a firm, crunchy texture that makes them a great addition to a variety of dishes.
Purple turnips are also packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They’re also low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making them a great choice for anyone looking to add more healthy foods to their diet.
The Benefits of Eating the Skin
One of the main reasons you might not need to peel purple turnips is that the skin is edible and packed with nutrients. In fact, the skin of a turnip contains many of the same vitamins and minerals as the flesh, including vitamin C and potassium.
Eating the skin of a turnip can also provide additional fiber and antioxidants, which can help to support digestive health and reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, the skin of a turnip contains a compound called glucosinolate, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
When to Peel Purple Turnips
While the skin of a purple turnip is edible, there are some situations in which you might want to peel it. For example, if the skin is tough or fibrous, it may be difficult to digest and could cause stomach upset.
You may also want to peel purple turnips if they’re not organic or if they’ve been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. In these cases, peeling the turnip can help to remove any residues that may be present on the skin.
How to Peel Purple Turnips
If you do decide to peel your purple turnips, it’s easy to do. Simply use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, starting at the top of the turnip and working your way down. You can also use a paring knife to peel the turnip, but be careful not to cut too deeply and waste any of the flesh.
Preparing and Cooking with Purple Turnips
Once you’ve decided whether or not to peel your purple turnips, it’s time to start preparing and cooking with them. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right size: When selecting purple turnips, choose ones that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid turnips that are soft or have signs of mold or rot.
- Store them properly: Purple turnips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Keep them in a plastic bag or airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Use them in a variety of dishes: Purple turnips are a versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes.
Cooking Methods
Purple turnips can be cooked in a variety of ways, including:
- Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness in purple turnips and adds a caramelized flavor. Simply slice or chop the turnips and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
- Boiling: Boiling is a simple way to cook purple turnips and can help to retain their nutrients. Simply chop the turnips and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
- Sauteing: Sauteing is a great way to add flavor to purple turnips and can be done with a variety of ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Simply chop the turnips and heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the turnips and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
Recipe Ideas
Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
- Purple Turnip and Apple Soup: This creamy soup is a great way to enjoy the flavor of purple turnips. Simply chop the turnips and saute them in butter until tender. Then, add in some chopped apple and chicken or vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and serve hot.
- Roasted Purple Turnip and Carrot Salad: This salad is a great way to enjoy the flavor and texture of purple turnips. Simply roast the turnips and carrots in the oven until tender and caramelized. Then, chop them up and toss with mixed greens, a citrus vinaigrette, and some crumbled goat cheese.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not to peel purple turnips is a matter of personal preference. While the skin is edible and packed with nutrients, there may be situations in which you want to peel the turnip. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can enjoy the flavor and nutrition of purple turnips in a variety of dishes.
Remember to choose the right size, store them properly, and use them in a variety of dishes. With their sweet, slightly peppery flavor and firm, crunchy texture, purple turnips are a great addition to any meal. So next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, be sure to pick up a few purple turnips and give them a try!
What is the purpose of peeling turnips?
Peeling turnips is often done to remove the outer skin, which can be tough and fibrous. This is especially true for larger turnips, where the skin may be thicker and more noticeable. By peeling the turnip, you can reveal the tender and sweet flesh underneath, making it more palatable for eating raw or cooked.
However, it’s worth noting that peeling turnips can also result in a loss of nutrients, as the skin contains a significant amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If you do choose to peel your turnips, be sure to use the peels in a stock or broth to make the most of their nutritional value.
Are purple turnips different from other varieties?
Purple turnips are a unique variety of turnip that is known for its vibrant purple color and sweet, slightly peppery flavor. While they share many similarities with other types of turnips, they are distinct in their appearance and taste. Purple turnips are often smaller than other varieties, with a thinner skin that is less likely to be bitter.
In terms of preparation, purple turnips can be treated similarly to other turnips. They can be eaten raw, roasted, boiled, or sautéed, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups. However, their delicate flavor and texture make them particularly well-suited to raw preparations, such as slaws and salads.
Do I need to peel purple turnips?
Whether or not to peel purple turnips is largely a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for a more tender and sweet flavor, peeling the turnip may be a good option. However, if you want to make the most of the turnip’s nutritional value and texture, leaving the skin on may be the way to go.
It’s worth noting that the skin of purple turnips is generally thinner and less bitter than other varieties, making it more palatable for eating raw or cooked. If you do choose to leave the skin on, be sure to wash the turnip thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
How do I peel a purple turnip?
Peeling a purple turnip is a relatively simple process that can be done with a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife. Start by washing the turnip thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin, starting at the top of the turnip and working your way down.
Alternatively, you can use a sharp knife to peel the turnip. Simply place the turnip on a cutting board and slice off the skin in thin strips, starting at the top and working your way down. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as you want to avoid wasting any of the tender flesh underneath.
Can I eat the skin of a purple turnip raw?
Yes, the skin of a purple turnip can be eaten raw, and it’s actually a great way to make the most of the turnip’s nutritional value. The skin contains a significant amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy and crunchy addition to salads and slaws.
When eating the skin of a purple turnip raw, be sure to wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a vegetable brush to scrub the skin and remove any impurities. Then, simply slice or chop the turnip and add it to your favorite recipe.
How do I store purple turnips to keep them fresh?
Purple turnips can be stored in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to a week. Simply place the turnips in a plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the crisper drawer. You can also store turnips in a cool, dark place, such as a root cellar or pantry.
It’s worth noting that turnips are a cool-season crop, which means they prefer cooler temperatures and higher humidity. By storing them in a cool, dark place, you can help to preserve their flavor and texture.
Can I use purple turnips in place of other varieties?
Yes, purple turnips can be used in place of other varieties in most recipes. They have a similar texture and flavor profile to other turnips, making them a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes. However, keep in mind that purple turnips are generally sweeter and milder than other varieties, so you may need to adjust the amount of seasoning or spices in your recipe.
In general, purple turnips are a great addition to salads, slaws, soups, and stews. They can also be roasted or boiled as a side dish, or used in place of potatoes in recipes like mashed turnips or turnip gratin.