What To Know
- Learning how to cook kohlrabi can unlock a world of culinary possibilities, transforming this often overlooked vegetable into a star of your next meal.
- Shred kohlrabi and combine it with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a delicious slaw.
- Cook kohlrabi until tender, then mash it with butter, salt, and pepper for a unique and flavorful side dish.
Kohlrabi. That strange, bulbous vegetable that often sits ignored in the produce aisle. But don’t let its unassuming appearance fool you! Kohlrabi is a surprisingly versatile and delicious ingredient, packed with vitamins and minerals. Learning how to cook kohlrabi can unlock a world of culinary possibilities, transforming this often overlooked vegetable into a star of your next meal.
The Basics of Kohlrabi: A Quick Overview
Kohlrabi belongs to the same family as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. It’s actually the swollen stem of the plant, and it comes in both green and purple varieties. The flavor of kohlrabi is mild, slightly sweet, and reminiscent of broccoli stems or turnips. It can be eaten raw or cooked, and it works well in a variety of dishes.
Preparing Kohlrabi for Culinary Success
Before you can cook kohlrabi, you need to prepare it. Here’s a simple guide:
1. Wash and Trim: Rinse the kohlrabi thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the top and bottom, and remove any damaged or discolored parts.
2. Peel or Not? The skin of kohlrabi is edible, but it can be tough. If you prefer a smoother texture, peel it with a vegetable peeler. If you’re using it raw, peeling is generally recommended.
3. Cut to Size: Cut the kohlrabi into the desired size and shape for your recipe. For salads, you can slice it thinly. For stir-fries or soups, you can dice it into small pieces.
How to Cook Kohlrabi: A Culinary Adventure
Now that you’ve prepped your kohlrabi, it’s time to get cooking! Here are some popular methods and recipes to inspire your culinary journey:
1. Roasting for Sweet and Tender Goodness
Roasting kohlrabi brings out its natural sweetness and creates a tender, caramelized texture.
- Simple Roasted Kohlrabi: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut kohlrabi into wedges or chunks, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
- Roasted Kohlrabi with Herbs: Add a touch of flavor by tossing the kohlrabi with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage before roasting.
2. Sautéing for Quick and Flavorful Dishes
Sautéing kohlrabi is a fast and easy way to cook it.
- Sautéed Kohlrabi with Garlic: Sauté thinly sliced kohlrabi in olive oil with minced garlic until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sautéed Kohlrabi with Ginger and Soy Sauce: For an Asian-inspired twist, sauté kohlrabi with ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil.
3. Steaming for a Light and Healthy Option
Steaming is a healthy way to cook kohlrabi, preserving its nutrients and flavor.
- Steamed Kohlrabi with Lemon and Dill: Steam kohlrabi until tender, then toss with a simple dressing of lemon juice, dill, and olive oil.
- Steamed Kohlrabi with Sesame Seeds: For a nutty flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over steamed kohlrabi.
4. Adding Kohlrabi to Soups and Stews
Kohlrabi adds a subtle sweetness and texture to soups and stews.
- Creamy Kohlrabi Soup: Sauté diced kohlrabi with onions and garlic, then add vegetable broth and simmer until the kohlrabi is tender. Blend the soup until smooth and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of cream.
- Hearty Vegetable Stew: Add diced kohlrabi to your favorite vegetable stew recipe for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Raw Kohlrabi: A Crunchy and Refreshing Addition
Kohlrabi can be enjoyed raw, adding a delightful crunch to salads and other dishes.
- Kohlrabi Salad: Thinly slice kohlrabi and toss with other vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Dress with a vinaigrette or a creamy yogurt dressing.
- Kohlrabi Slaw: Shred kohlrabi and combine it with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing for a delicious slaw.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Kohlrabi Dishes
Once you’ve mastered the basics, feel free to experiment with more creative ways to cook kohlrabi.
- Kohlrabi Fritters: Grate kohlrabi, combine it with flour, eggs, and spices, and fry into crispy fritters.
- Kohlrabi Mash: Cook kohlrabi until tender, then mash it with butter, salt, and pepper for a unique and flavorful side dish.
- Kohlrabi Pickles: Pickled kohlrabi is a tart and crunchy treat.
Kohlrabi: A Culinary Treasure Waiting to be Discovered
Don’t be intimidated by kohlrabi’s unusual appearance. This versatile vegetable is a delicious and nutritious addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re roasting, sautéing, steaming, or enjoying it raw, there’s a world of culinary possibilities waiting to be explored. So, embrace the challenge, experiment with different recipes, and discover the hidden gem that is kohlrabi.
Questions You May Have
Q: What does kohlrabi taste like?
A: Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, reminiscent of broccoli stems or turnips.
Q: How do I know if kohlrabi is ripe?
A: Look for firm, smooth kohlrabi with bright green or purple skin. Avoid any that are soft, wrinkled, or have blemishes.
Q: Can I store kohlrabi in the refrigerator?
A: Yes, kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in a plastic bag.
Q: Can I freeze kohlrabi?
A: While you can freeze kohlrabi, it’s best to use it fresh. Freezing can affect its texture and flavor.
Q: What are some other vegetables that are similar to kohlrabi?
A: Kohlrabi is similar in texture and flavor to turnips, broccoli stems, and kohlrabi.
