Unleash the Magic of Kohlrabi: Surprising Ways to Incorporate It into Your Meals

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the versatile and often overlooked vegetable – kohlrabi. In this article, we aim to unleash the magic of kohlrabi by providing you with surprising and creative ways to incorporate it into your meals. Kohlrabi, with its unique flavor and texture, has the potential to elevate your dishes to new heights. So let’s dive in and explore the wonderful world of kohlrabi together!

What is Kohlrabi?

First and foremost, let’s understand what kohlrabi is. Kohlrabi, scientifically known as Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes, belongs to the cabbage family and is widely cultivated for its edible stem. The name “kohlrabi” is derived from the German words “kohl” meaning cabbage and “rabi” meaning turnip, which perfectly describes its appearance and taste.

The Nutritional Powerhouse

Before we delve into the various ways to enjoy kohlrabi, let’s take a moment to appreciate its nutritional value. Kohlrabi is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritional powerhouse. It is a great source of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, it contains fiber, potassium, and various antioxidants, all of which contribute to overall well-being. Incorporating kohlrabi into your meals is not only delicious but also a smart choice for your health.

Raw Delights: Kohlrabi Salads

One of the simplest and most refreshing ways to enjoy kohlrabi is by incorporating it into salads. Its crisp texture and subtly sweet flavor add a delightful crunch to any salad. Here’s a recipe to get you started:

Kohlrabi and Apple Slaw

Ingredients:

• 2 kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and julienned
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the kohlrabi, apple, cilantro, and walnuts.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the kohlrabi mixture and toss until well-coated.
4. Allow the flavors to meld together for at least 10 minutes before serving.
5. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious kohlrabi and apple slaw as a side dish or a light lunch option.

Cooked to Perfection: Kohlrabi Stir-Fry

If you prefer your kohlrabi cooked, stir-frying is an excellent method that retains its natural flavors and textures. The addition of aromatic spices and herbs takes this dish to a whole new level. Give this recipe a try:

Spicy Kohlrabi Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 2 kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and red chili. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the kohlrabi slices and continue stir-frying for another 5 minutes until they are slightly tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the sauce over the kohlrabi and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes until well-coated and heated through.
6. Serve this spicy kohlrabi stir-fry as a delicious and satisfying main course alongside steamed rice or noodles.

Kohlrabi’s Secret: Creamy Soup

Unleash the magic of kohlrabi by transforming it into a creamy and comforting soup. This recipe highlights the vegetable’s delicate flavor and creates a velvety texture that will leave you craving for more.

Creamy Kohlrabi Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
2. Add the kohlrabi cubes and continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the kohlrabi and stir well to coat.
4. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the kohlrabi is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
8. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
9. Serve this creamy kohlrabi soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

Baking with Kohlrabi: Savory Muffins

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not incorporate kohlrabi into your baking? Savory muffins with kohlrabi are a delightful way to surprise your taste buds. Here’s an easy recipe to get you started:

Cheesy Kohlrabi and Herb Muffins

Ingredients:

• 2 kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and grated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated kohlrabi, flour, grated cheese, and chopped fresh herbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, egg, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. These cheesy kohlrabi and herb muffins are perfect as a snack or a side dish alongside soups or salads.

Conclusion

In conclusion, kohlrabi is a true culinary gem that deserves a place in your kitchen. From refreshing salads to spicy stir-fries, creamy soups, and even savory muffins, the possibilities of incorporating kohlrabi into your meals are endless. Its unique flavor, crisp texture, and nutritional benefits make it a versatile and exciting vegetable to experiment with. So why not unleash the magic of kohlrabi and surprise your taste buds with these delightful and inventive recipes? Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the wonders of kohlrabi today!