In the world of vegetables, kohlrabi is a standout. Not only is it packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, but it’s a veritable culinary chameleon. Whether you’re looking to make a delicious kohlrabi soup, kohlrabi fries, or a unique kohlrabi casserole, these tips and tricks will help you cook up the perfect kohlrabi dish.
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What is Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a leafy green vegetable that has a crunchy texture, similar to that of a turnip or rutabaga. It’s a member of the cabbage family, and it’s easy to identify because of its unique bulb shape.
Kohlrabi is a great source of vitamins A, B, and C, and it’s also high in dietary fiber. It’s a great addition to any diet, and it’s incredibly versatile. It can be eaten raw, boiled, steamed, roasted, or even fried.
How to Select and Store Kohlrabi
When selecting kohlrabi, look for firm bulbs that are free from any blemishes. The leaves should be bright green, and they should not be wilted. Avoid any bulbs that have soft spots or are damaged.
Kohlrabi is best stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It can keep for up to two weeks if stored properly. If the leaves are still attached, remove them before storing as they will draw moisture away from the bulb.
How to Prepare Kohlrabi for Cooking
Before you cook kohlrabi, you will need to peel away the tough outer layer. To do this, use a sharp vegetable peeler or a paring knife. Once the outer layer is removed, you can cut the kohlrabi into cubes, slices, or wedges. Make sure to discard any tough or fibrous pieces.
How to Cook Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi can be cooked in a variety of ways. It can be boiled, steamed, roasted, or even fried. For boiling, simply add the kohlrabi to a pot of boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender. For steaming, add the pieces to a steamer basket and cook for about 8 minutes.
For roasting, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the kohlrabi into cubes or wedges, and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
For a delicious and easy fried kohlrabi dish, cut the kohlrabi into cubes and place in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together equal parts flour and seasoned breadcrumbs. Dip the kohlrabi pieces in the mixture and then fry in a pan with hot oil until golden brown.
Kohlrabi Recipes to Try
Kohlrabi is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Here are a few of our favorite kohlrabi recipes to try:
Kohlrabi Soup
This creamy kohlrabi soup is sure to warm you up on a cold winter day. To make it, simply sauté onions and garlic in a pot until softened. Add cubed kohlrabi, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the kohlrabi is tender. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
Kohlrabi Fries
These crispy kohlrabi fries are a great alternative to regular French fries. To make them, preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Slice the kohlrabi into sticks and place in a bowl. Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Kohlrabi Casserole
This unique kohlrabi casserole is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large bowl, mix together cubed kohlrabi, cooked quinoa, frozen vegetables, and a jar of your favorite alfredo sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
As you can see, kohlrabi is an incredibly versatile and flavorful vegetable. With these tips and tricks, you can cook up perfectly delicious kohlrabi dishes every time. And don’t forget to have fun and add your own unique twist to each recipe – after all, that’s what cooking is all about! As the saying goes, “If life gives you kohlrabi, make kohlrabi fries!”