A waxed turnip is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking a waxed turnip is a simple and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of preparing a waxed turnip from start to finish.
First and foremost, you’ll need to gather the necessary ingredients: a medium-sized waxed turnip, salt, pepper, olive oil, and any additional spices or herbs you’d like to use. It’s important to choose a fresh and firm turnip for the best results.
Next, you’ll want to prepare the turnip for cooking: Start by washing the turnip thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife or a peeler, peel off the waxed skin layer until you reach the white or yellowish flesh of the turnip. Cut the turnip into small, bite-sized pieces or thin slices, depending on your preference.
Now it’s time to cook the waxed turnip: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the turnip pieces to the pan and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs you’d like to use. Cook the turnip for about 10-12 minutes, or until it becomes tender and slightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Preparing the turnip
Before you can cook a waxed turnip, you need to properly prepare it. Follow these steps to ensure your turnip is clean and ready to be cooked:
Gather the necessary ingredients:
- 1 waxed turnip
- Water
- Salt
Clean the turnip:
Start by rinsing the waxed turnip under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a scrub brush or vegetable brush to gently scrub the outer skin of the turnip. Make sure to remove any remaining wax coating on the surface.
Trim and cut the turnip:
After cleaning, trim off the top and bottom ends of the turnip using a sharp knife. Then, using a vegetable peeler, remove the outer skin of the turnip. Once peeled, cut the turnip into small, bite-sized pieces or slices, depending on your preference.
Soak the turnip:
Fill a large bowl with cold water and add a tablespoon of salt. Place the cut turnip into the water and let it soak for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to remove any remaining dirt and enhances the flavor of the turnip.
Drain and pat dry:
After soaking, drain the turnip using a colander or strainer. Give it a gentle shake to remove excess water. Place the turnip pieces on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them dry.
Now that your waxed turnip is properly prepared, you’re ready to start cooking it!
Boiling the turnip
Boiling is a simple and effective method for cooking a waxed turnip. This method helps to preserve the natural flavors of the turnip while making it tender and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 waxed turnip
- Water
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Start by peeling the waxed turnip and cutting it into small cubes or slices, depending on your preference.
- Fill a pot with water, enough to completely submerge the turnip pieces.
- If desired, add salt to the water for extra flavor.
- Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the turnip pieces to the pot.
- Cook the turnip for about 10-15 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and drain the water.
- Your boiled waxed turnip is now ready to be served as a side dish or used in various recipes.
Note: Boiling the turnip is just one way to cook it. You can also try other cooking methods such as roasting or stir-frying to vary the flavors and textures.
Time | Ingredients | Instructions |
---|---|---|
10-15 minutes | 1 waxed turnip Water Salt (optional) |
|
Preparing the wax
Before cooking a waxed turnip, it is important to properly prepare the wax. This will ensure that the turnip is covered evenly and that the wax adheres well to its surface.
Step 1: Choosing the right wax
There are various types of wax available for cooking purposes. Beeswax is commonly used as it is natural and food-safe. Make sure to choose a wax that is suitable for cooking and does not contain any harmful substances.
Step 2: Melting the wax
To prepare the wax, you will need to melt it. Start by placing the wax in a heat-resistant container. You can use a double boiler or a microwave for this purpose. If using a microwave, make sure to use a microwave-safe container.
Heat the wax slowly, stirring occasionally, until it melts completely. Be careful not to overheat the wax as it can become flammable.
Step 3: Adding color and fragrance (optional)
If desired, you can add color and fragrance to the melted wax. This will give the turnip a more visually appealing and aromatic finish. Use food-safe colors and fragrances that are suitable for cooking.
Note: Adding color and fragrance is optional and purely for aesthetic purposes. Keep in mind that the waxed turnip will be cooked, so the color and fragrance may diminish during the cooking process.
Step 4: Dipping the turnip in wax
Once the wax has melted and any desired additives have been mixed in, it is time to dip the turnip. Holding the turnip by its stem, carefully dip it into the melted wax, making sure that it is fully covered.
Allow any excess wax to drip off the turnip before setting it aside to dry. You can place the turnip on a parchment-lined baking sheet to catch any drips.
Repeat this process with each turnip until all of them are waxed and set aside to dry completely.
By following these steps, you will be able to properly prepare the wax before cooking the turnip. This will result in a well-coated and visually appealing final product.
Dipping the turnip in wax
To cook a waxed turnip, it is important to start by preparing the turnip itself.
One method of preparing the turnip is to dip it in wax. This helps to seal in the moisture and flavor, creating a delicious and tender turnip.
Gather your materials
Before dipping the turnip in wax, make sure you have all the necessary materials. This includes a pot of melted wax, a pair of tongs for handling the turnip, and a thermometer to monitor the wax temperature. It is best to use food-grade paraffin wax for this process.
Dip the turnip in wax
Once you have all your materials ready, carefully lower the turnip into the pot of melted wax using the tongs. Make sure the turnip is fully submerged in the wax.
Allow the turnip to sit in the wax for a few seconds, making sure it is evenly coated. This will create a protective layer around the turnip, sealing in the moisture and flavor.
Using the tongs, carefully remove the turnip from the wax and place it on a cooling rack or parchment paper. Allow the wax to cool and solidify around the turnip before cooking it further.
Once the wax has completely hardened, you can proceed with cooking the turnip using your preferred method. Whether you choose to roast, boil, or steam the turnip, the wax coating will help keep it moist and tender throughout the cooking process.
Remember to remove the wax coating before consuming the turnip. Simply peel off the hardened wax layer before enjoying your cooked waxed turnip.
Drying the waxed turnip
After you have washed and peeled the waxed turnip, the next step is to dry it. Drying the turnip is important as it helps to remove the excess moisture, making the turnip crisp and ready for cooking.
To dry the waxed turnip, start by patting it dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Make sure to remove any excess water from the surface of the turnip.
Once the turnip is dry, you can then cut it into thin slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Thin slices are great for making crispy turnip chips, while cubes are perfect for adding to stir-fries or soups.
After cutting the turnip, spread the slices or cubes out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer, without overlapping, to ensure even drying.
Next, place the baking sheet with the turnip in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. You can also use a food dehydrator set to a low temperature, if you have one. Let the turnip dry for several hours or overnight, until it becomes dry and crispy.
During the drying process, it is important to rotate the turnip slices or cubes every few hours to ensure even drying. This will help prevent any moisture from being trapped, which can lead to mold or spoilage.
Once the turnip is fully dried, store it in an airtight container or a ziplock bag to maintain its crispness. You can then use the dried turnip in various recipes or enjoy it as a healthy snack.
Remember, drying the waxed turnip is an essential step in the cooking process, as it helps to enhance its texture and flavor. So, take your time to dry the turnip properly, and enjoy the delicious results!
Q&A
Can I eat a waxed turnip raw?
While it is technically safe to eat a waxed turnip raw, it is not generally recommended. The wax coating on the turnip is not meant to be consumed and may have a slightly bitter taste. It’s best to peel and cook the turnip before consuming it.