Savory Mashed Purple Top Turnips
Experience the delightful taste of Savory Mashed Purple Top Turnips, a classic dish that embodies the heart of farmhouse dining. This recipe transforms humble turnips into a creamy side that rivals traditional mashed potatoes. With the sweet, earthy flavor of purple-topped turnips, enhanced by rich butter and a hint of seasoning, it's a perfect addition to any meal. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday feasts, this dish is both nutritious and easy to prepare. Enjoy a taste of history with this recipe inspired by 'The Little House Cookbook' by Barbara M. Walker, as featured in 'On The Banks of Plum Creek.'
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Turnips
2.5-3 lbs (washed and peeled)
Butter
3 tablespoons (unsalted)
Salt
to taste (optional)
Pepper
to taste (optional)
Instructions
1
Start by thoroughly washing the turnips to remove any dirt, then peel them using a vegetable peeler.
2
Slice the peeled turnips into thin rounds to break down the vertical fibers, ensuring a creamier consistency when mashed.
3
In a large kettle or pot, place the sliced turnips and add just enough water (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) to cover the bottom of the pot. This helps to steam the turnips without boiling them.
4
Cover the kettle and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook the turnips for approximately 20 to 30 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
5
For the last few minutes of cooking, remove the lid to allow any excess water to evaporate, ensuring a fluffier mash.
6
Once the turnips are tender, add the butter, along with salt and pepper to taste. Mash the turnips until smooth and creamy using a potato masher or fork.
7
Return the pot to the burner for a couple of minutes to reheat the mashed turnips if necessary, stirring gently to combine.
8
Serve the mashed turnips in a warm serving dish, garnished with a sprinkle of additional butter or herbs if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Mashed Purple Top Turnips?
Savory Mashed Purple Top Turnips are a classic farmhouse-style side dish made by steaming and mashing purple top turnips with butter and seasonings to create a creamy alternative to mashed potatoes.
What is the literary inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by 'The Little House Cookbook' by Barbara M. Walker, as featured in the book 'On The Banks of Plum Creek'.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide approximately 6 servings.
What type of turnips should be used for this dish?
The recipe specifically calls for purple top turnips, known for their sweet and earthy flavor profile.
Do I need to peel the turnips before cooking?
Yes, the instructions specify that you should thoroughly wash the turnips and peel them using a vegetable peeler.
What is the best way to slice the turnips for mashing?
The turnips should be sliced into thin rounds to help break down the vertical fibers for a smoother mash.
Why is it important to slice the turnips into thin rounds?
Slicing them into thin rounds ensures a creamier consistency when the turnips are eventually mashed.
How much water is needed to cook the turnips?
You only need about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of water, or just enough to cover the bottom of the pot.
Are the turnips boiled or steamed?
The turnips are essentially steamed by using a small amount of water in a covered kettle over medium heat.
What is the recommended cooking time for the turnips?
The turnips should be cooked for approximately 20 to 30 minutes until they are tender.
How can I tell if the turnips are cooked enough?
The turnips are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork.
Why should I remove the lid during the last few minutes of cooking?
Removing the lid allows any excess water to evaporate, which ensures the final mash is fluffy rather than watery.
What are the main ingredients besides turnips?
The other ingredients are unsalted butter, salt, and pepper.
How much butter is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What tools should I use to mash the turnips?
You can use a standard potato masher or a fork to mash the turnips until they are smooth.
Is this a healthy side dish?
Yes, mashed turnips are considered a nutritious and healthy vegetable side dish.
What flavor can I expect from mashed turnips?
They offer a sweet and earthy flavor that is enriched by the addition of butter.
Can I garnish this dish with anything?
Yes, you can garnish the served turnips with a sprinkle of additional butter or fresh herbs if desired.
How do I reheat the turnips if they have cooled down?
You can return the pot to the burner for a couple of minutes, stirring gently to reheat them before serving.
What is the culinary category for this recipe?
This recipe falls under the Vegetable category.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday meals?
Yes, it is an ideal side dish for family gatherings and holiday feasts.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 4 ingredients in total: turnips, butter, salt, and pepper.
What is the first step in the preparation process?
The first step is to thoroughly wash the turnips to remove any dirt.
What heat setting should be used for simmering?
The turnips should be cooked over medium heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
Is salted or unsalted butter recommended?
The recipe specifically recommends using 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What weight of turnips is required?
You will need between 2.5 and 3 pounds of turnips.
Can this dish be described as comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food because of its creamy and satisfying nature.
What makes this a 'farmhouse' recipe?
It is described as a classic dish that embodies the heart of farmhouse dining and traditional cooking.
How should I prepare the pot for cooking?
Use a large kettle or pot and add just enough water to cover the bottom before adding the sliced turnips.
Are salt and pepper required for this recipe?
Salt and pepper are listed as optional ingredients to be added to your personal taste preference.