Parsnips have a unique sweet and earthy flavor that is similar to a carrot but with a slightly nuttier and sweeter taste. They are a great addition to soups, stews, and purees, and can be roasted or mashed to bring out their natural sweetness. They’re one of my personal favorites for their flavor. It’s one of the things I love to find on the table at Thanksgiving or Christmas. Of course, it helps that parsnips are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. They also contain small amounts of various vitamins and minerals, such as folate, vitamin K, vitamin E, and vitamin B6. Tasty and healthy. Yipee!
Parsnips are in season, so I thought I’d share my favorite 3 parsnip ‘recipes’ which showcase the unique taste and texture of parsnips. These are notes from my recipe journal, but not quite detailed so take this as inspiration for you to make parsnips your own.
- Roasted Parsnip Soup: This recipe is a comforting and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. Peel and chop 4 parsnips, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until they are tender and lightly browned. Puree the roasted parsnips with some chicken or vegetable broth, a bit of heavy cream and a pinch of nutmeg. Serve the soup with a swirl of cream and some chopped parsley or almonds. Pairs well with herby tearaway bread.
- Parsnip and Carrot Gratin: This dish is a great side dish that can be served with roast chicken or beef. Peel and thinly slice 4 parsnips and 4 carrots. Arrange the slices in a baking dish, then pour over a mixture of heavy cream, grated Gruyere cheese, and Dijon mustard. Bake the gratin in a preheated oven until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Parsnip and Apple Salad: This recipe is a great way to enjoy parsnips in a refreshing and healthy salad. Peel and grate 2 parsnips and 2 apples. Mix the grated vegetables and fruit with some chopped fresh parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This salad can be served as a side dish or as a topping for some grilled chicken or fish.
These recipes are just a starting point and you can play around with different seasonings, herbs and spices to give your dish a unique taste. Parsnips have a sweet and earthy flavor that pairs well with other root vegetables, fruits, and herbs.