Are you wondering how to successfully cook turnips in water ?
This often underestimated vegetable can nevertheless bring a lot of flavor and texture to your dishes.
Let's discover together all the tips for achieving even, tasty cooking that is perfectly suited to various culinary preparations.
Boiling time for turnips
The cooking time for turnips depends mainly on their size and the method used:
Traditional boiling
This classic method is simple to perform.
Fill a saucepan with water and bring it to a boil.
Next, add the turnips and let it simmer.
varies Cooking time depending on the size of the pieces :
- Small cubes: 10 to 12 minutes
- Large slices: 15 to 20 minutes
- Whole turnips: 25 to 30 minutes (especially if they are large)
To check if they're cooked, use a fork. The turnips should be tender, but not too soft; they should retain some firmness.
Using a steamer
If you have a steamer, you can steam your turnips for a slightly different texture and optimal retention of vitamins.
Simply place the cut turnips in the cooker basket and set for 15 to 20 minutes of cooking.
This method is practical for those who prefer gentle cooking that respects the food.
However, the time may vary depending on the power of your device.
Why cook turnips in water?
Boiling is a simple and effective method to preserve the texture and delicate taste of turnips.
It helps retain a large portion of their essential nutrients. You are guaranteed healthy cooking without adding fat.
This method is accessible to everyone, regardless of your culinary experience. Simply follow a few practical tips to transform this root vegetable into a true delicacy.
The nutritional benefits of boiling
Turnips are rich in important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.
Boiling turnips helps retain their nutrients, while also making the vegetable easier to digest. Steaming is just as good, but requires a small investment.
Boiling of requires no additional ingredients other than salted boiling waterthe turnip to shine through, making it a good match for many dishes.
Preparing the turnips before cooking
The steps to follow to ensure successful cooking of the turnips:
- Wash and peel: Start by washing the turnips thoroughly under cold water to remove all traces of soil. Then peel the turnips with a vegetable peeler.
- Cutting: Depending on the size of the turnips and your preference, cut them into small cubes or slices. Turnips cut uniformly ensure even cooking.
- Salting the water: Adding salt to the cooking water enhances the taste of turnips and helps to retain their bright color.
Paying attention to these few details before cooking makes a big difference to the final result. Cut pieces of equal size to avoid uneven cooking.
Using a pressure cooker to save time
The pressure cooker speeds up the cooking of food, but it also preserves flavors better.
To cook turnips in water in a pressure cooker, simply place the cut turnips in the steamer basket of the pressure cooker, add water, close and let it cook for about 10 minutes after the valve whistles.
Very practical if you are preparing a meal during the week and want to reduce the time spent in the kitchen.
Furthermore, steam cooking helps to preserve nutrients even more.
Tips for perfectly cooking turnips
Ensure even cooking
To ensure your turnips cook evenly, make sure to cut the vegetables into similarly sized pieces.
An uneven cut could lead to uneven cooking, with some pieces becoming softer while others remain crunchy.
Don't forget to add salt to the cooking water to enhance the flavors and help maintain the bright white color of the turnips.
Recipe variations and ideas
You can incorporate cooked turnips into various dishes such as purees, soups or gratins.
Why not try a turnip and potato puree as a change from the traditional mashed potatoes?
You can also add turnips to a pot-au-feu, where they will bring a unique sweetness to the broth.
Sautéed turnips with a little butter after boiling also make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or fish. Their light caramelization will add a subtly sweet touch.
FAQ
What is the best way to test if turnips are cooked?
The best way to tell if your turnips are ready is touse a fork.
Insert it into a piece of turnip; if it slides in easily without resistance, the turnip is cooked through. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they may become mushy.
Can turnips be pre-cooked and frozen?
Yes, it's perfectly possible to parboil turnips and then freeze them. This method is convenient for always having turnips ready to use.
After pre-cooking them, let them cool, spread them out on a tray to freeze them individually before storing them in airtight bags.
What spices and herbs go well with turnips?
Turnips have a sweet and slightly bitter flavor that pairs well with many herbs and spices.
You can add thyme, rosemary, or even a touch of nutmeg to enhance their flavor. A pinch of sugar can sometimes balance their slight bitterness.