Kohlrabi, often described as a cross between a turnip and a cabbage, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire. If you’ve never cooked kohlrabi before or are looking for new and exciting ways to prepare it, this step-by-step guide will help you discover the delicious potential of this unique vegetable.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before you embark on your kohlrabi-cooking adventure, gather these essential ingredients:
- Fresh kohlrabi bulbs
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional seasonings and herbs (garlic, thyme, lemon zest, etc.)
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Cutting board and knife
- Vegetable peeler
- Skillet or frying pan
- Pot (for boiling, if desired)
- Baking sheet (if roasting)
Step 1: Preparing the Kohlrabi
- Start by washing the kohlrabi bulbs thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a knife, carefully trim off the tops and bottoms of the kohlrabi. You can also peel the tough outer skin using a vegetable peeler, revealing the tender, crisp interior.
Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method
You have several options for cooking kohlrabi:
Boiling: Cut the peeled kohlrabi into bite-sized pieces and place them in a pot of boiling water. Cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and proceed to the next step.
Steaming: Similar to boiling, cut the kohlrabi into bite-sized pieces and steam until tender, usually 8-10 minutes.
Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the peeled kohlrabi into wedges or cubes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, along with any desired seasonings. Spread the kohlrabi evenly on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Step 3: Cooking the Kohlrabi
For Boiling or Steaming:
- In a skillet or frying pan, heat a bit of olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the boiled or steamed kohlrabi pieces and sauté for a few minutes to develop some color and flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or seasonings you like.
For Roasting:
- Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a touch of olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the roasted kohlrabi pieces and sauté for a few minutes to enhance their flavor. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or seasonings.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the cooked kohlrabi to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Kohlrabi pairs well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian stir-fries.
Cooking kohlrabi is a delightful culinary journey that opens up a world of flavors and textures. By following these steps and experimenting with different seasonings and cooking methods, you can savor the unique and delicious taste of kohlrabi in various dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, this guide will help you unlock the culinary magic of kohlrabi. Enjoy your culinary adventure!