Turnips are a versatile and delicious root vegetable that can be prepared in various ways. One popular method is to cook them southern style, which involves simmering the turnips with savory ingredients, resulting in a flavorful and comforting dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and is sure to impress your family and friends.

To start, you’ll need fresh turnips, preferably with their greens still attached. The greens are edible and can be used in this recipe, so don’t throw them away! Begin by washing the turnips and greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, trim off the ends and any woody parts, and peel the turnips if desired. Chop the turnips into bite-sized pieces, and set them aside.

In a large saucepan or pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This will create a savory base for the turnips. If you’re a fan of spicy flavors, you can also add a chopped chili pepper or some red pepper flakes to the pan.

Once the onions and garlic are cooked, add the chopped turnips and greens to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the turnips with the flavors of the onions and garlic. Then, pour in enough vegetable or chicken broth to cover the turnips. You can also add some water if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer.

Preparing turnips for cooking

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Before cooking turnips, it is important to properly prepare them to ensure they are ready for southern-style cooking. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Wash the turnips: Start by washing the turnips thoroughly under cold running water. Use a clean vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.

2. Peel the turnips: Using a sharp vegetable peeler, carefully remove the outer skin of the turnips. Make sure to remove any tough or blemished areas.

3. Trim the ends: Trim off the ends of the turnips with a knife. This will help to create an even cooking surface and ensure the turnips cook evenly.

4. Cut into desired shape: Cut the turnips into your desired shape. Some popular options are cubes, wedges, or slices. The size will depend on personal preference and the recipe you are following.

5. Soak in cold water: To help remove any bitter taste, soak the cut turnips in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This will also help to keep the turnips crisp during cooking.

6. Drain and pat dry: After soaking, drain the turnips and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This will ensure they cook properly and prevent any excess moisture from diluting the flavors.

Now your turnips are ready to be cooked in the southern style of your choice. Enjoy!

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Choosing the right turnips

When it comes to cooking turnips southern style, choosing the right turnips is essential. There are a few key factors to consider when selecting your turnips:

  • Size: Look for medium-sized turnips that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid turnips that are too large or too small, as they may have a woody texture or lack flavor.
  • Color: Opt for turnips with a vibrant purple or white color. Avoid turnips with blemishes or bruises, as they may indicate that the turnip is past its prime.
  • Leaves: If the turnips come with their greens still attached, look for greens that are fresh, bright, and crisp. Avoid turnips with wilted or yellowing leaves, as this can be a sign of poor freshness.
  • Fresher is better: If possible, choose turnips that have been recently harvested, as they will be at their peak flavor. Turnips that have been sitting around for too long may have a more bitter taste.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you have chosen the right turnips to cook southern style. Remember that the quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the final result of your dish.

Peeling and cutting turnips

Before you can start cooking turnips, you need to properly prepare them by peeling and cutting them. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

Step 1:

Start by washing the turnips under cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.

Step 2:

Using a sharp knife, carefully trim off the ends of the turnips.

Step 3:

Using a vegetable peeler, begin peeling the skin off the turnips. Make sure to remove all of the tough outer layer.

Step 4:

Once the turnips are peeled, rinse them again under cold water to remove any remaining peel or dirt.

Step 5:

Now it’s time to cut the turnips. Use a sharp knife to slice them into your desired shape and size. You can cut them into cubes, wedges, or slices, depending on your personal preference.

Now that you have properly peeled and cut your turnips, you’re ready to cook them southern style!

Cooking turnips in a southern style

Southern-style turnips are a delicious and comforting side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender texture, makes them irresistible. Here’s how to cook turnips in a southern style:

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of turnips
  • 4 slices of bacon
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Peel the turnips and cut them into bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside for later.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.
  4. Add the turnip cubes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, until they start to soften.
  5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and sprinkle in the sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the turnips simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender.
  7. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has evaporated.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cooked turnips.
  9. Serve hot as a side dish and enjoy!
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These southern-style turnips are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Their rich flavors and comforting texture make them a versatile side dish that pairs well with meats, poultry, or even vegetarian mains. Give this recipe a try and discover a new favorite way to enjoy turnips!

Boiling Turnips

Boiling turnips is a simple and popular method of cooking them in southern style cuisine. This cooking technique helps to bring out the natural sweetness and flavors of the turnips while keeping them tender and delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to boil turnips to perfection.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of turnips
  • 4 cups of water
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Start by washing the turnips thoroughly, removing any dirt or debris. Peel the turnips using a vegetable peeler or a knife, and then cut them into small cubes or slices.
  2. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the salt and the prepared turnips to the boiling water.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the turnips simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender. Check the tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the turnip pieces. They should be easily pierced.
  4. Once the turnips are cooked, remove them from the heat and drain the water.
  5. Return the drained turnips to the pot and add the butter. Stir gently until the butter is melted and coats the turnips.
  6. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Your boiled turnips are now ready to be served as a delicious side dish or as a base for other recipes. Enjoy!

Seasoning and Serving Turnips

Seasoning turnips is a crucial step in creating a delicious southern-style dish. Here are some tips on how to season and serve your turnips to perfection:

1. Salt and Pepper

Begin by seasoning your turnips with salt and pepper. This will enhance their natural flavor and bring out their sweetness. Be generous with the salt and pepper, but taste as you go to ensure you don’t over-season.

2. Butter

Butter is a classic addition to turnips, adding richness and depth of flavor. After boiling or sautéing your turnips, melt a few tablespoons of butter and toss the cooked turnips in it. The butter will melt and coat the turnips, adding a velvety texture.

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3. Honey or Sugar

If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar to your turnips. This will balance out any bitterness and add a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the earthiness of turnips.

4. Fresh Herbs

To elevate the flavor profile of your turnips, add some fresh herbs. Chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary can add a burst of freshness and brightness to your dish. Just sprinkle the herbs over the turnips before serving.

5. Serving Suggestions

You can enjoy your seasoned turnips in various ways:

1. Serve them as a side dish alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or roasted pork.
2. Use them as a topping for salads or grain bowls to add a unique twist to your meal.
3. Mix them into mashed potatoes or cauliflower for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
4. Include them in a hearty vegetable soup or stew for added flavor and texture.

Experiment with different seasoning combinations and serving ideas to find your perfect southern-style turnip recipe. Enjoy!

Q&A

What is a southern style turnip recipe?

A southern style turnip recipe is a traditional way of cooking turnips in the southern region of the United States. It usually involves boiling the turnips with some pork seasoning for flavor.

How do I prepare turnips for southern style cooking?

To prepare turnips for southern style cooking, start by peeling the turnips and cutting them into small cubes. Rinse the cubes under cold water to remove any dirt. After that, you can proceed with the recipe.

How long does it take to cook turnips southern style?

The cooking time for turnips cooked southern style depends on the size and tenderness of the turnips. On average, it takes about 30-40 minutes to cook the turnips until they are tender. However, it’s always best to check the turnips with a fork to ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness.

Can I use other seasonings besides pork seasoning for southern style turnips?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with other seasonings to add flavor to your southern style turnips. Some popular alternatives to pork seasoning include smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or cayenne pepper. Feel free to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences.

What is a southern-style turnip dish?

A southern-style turnip dish is a recipe that features turnips as the main ingredient and is cooked in a way that is popular in the southern United States.

What are some traditional southern ingredients used in turnip recipes?

Some traditional southern ingredients used in turnip recipes include bacon or ham hock for flavoring, onions for added depth, and garlic for a touch of spice.