The 10 Best Substitutes for Kohlrabi

Are you looking for healthy and tasty alternatives to incorporate into your recipes? Look no further as we present to you the top 10 substitutes for kohlrabi.

With its increasing popularity and numerous health benefits, finding suitable substitutes for kohlrabi can be a concern for many.

But fret not, as we have curated the best options just for you. Get ready to add some variety to your cooking with these delicious suggestions.

Broccoli Stems

Broccoli stems are a versatile and nutritious substitute for kohlrabi. Here are a few steps to prepare and utilize them effectively:

• Peel the outer layer of the broccoli stem to reveal the tender inner flesh.
• Chop the stems into small pieces and incorporate them into stir-fries or sautés.
• Add the stems to soups or stews for an added texture and flavor.
• Grate the stems and use them in coleslaw or salads.
• Blend the stems into a smoothie for a nutritious boost of vitamins and minerals.

Cabbage

Cabbage is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be used as a substitute for kohlrabi in a variety of dishes. It offers a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Some popular types of cabbage to consider are green cabbage, Savoy cabbage, and Napa cabbage. These varieties can be incorporated into salads, stir-fries, coleslaws, and sautés as a tasty alternative to kohlrabi.

Additionally, cabbage is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Radishes

Radishes are a fantastic alternative to kohlrabi, as they share a similar crunchy texture and peppery taste. They can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, including salads, slaws, and stir-fries. Not only do radishes add a refreshing element to meals, but they also offer numerous health benefits.

They are low in calories and packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Some popular types of radishes include French breakfast radishes, watermelon radishes, and daikon radishes. Trying out different varieties of radishes can add a vibrant and tasty twist to your dishes.

Potatoes

When searching for alternatives to kohlrabi in recipes, potatoes can be a great choice. Follow these steps when using potatoes as a substitute:

1. Select the appropriate type of potato for your recipe, such as Russet, Yukon Gold, or Red potatoes.
2. Peel and cut the potatoes into your desired shape and size.
3. Boil or roast the potatoes until they are soft.
4. Season the potatoes with herbs, spices, or sauces to enhance the taste.
5. Use the cooked potatoes in your recipe as a replacement for kohlrabi.

Other suggestions for substitutes with a similar tone could include turnips, rutabaga, or parsnips, as they also offer a mild and slightly sweet flavor that complements various dishes.

Turnips

When searching for substitutes for kohlrabi in your recipes, turnips are an excellent and nutritious choice.

• Similar texture: Turnips have a crisp and crunchy texture, just like kohlrabi, making them a suitable alternative.
• Mild flavor: Both kohlrabi and turnips have a subtly sweet and earthy taste, allowing turnips to complement a variety of dishes.
• Cooking versatility: Turnips can be roasted, sautéed, steamed, or used in soups and stews, just like kohlrabi.
• Nutritional benefits: Turnips are low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Pro-tip: To enhance the flavor of turnips, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.

Jicama

Nutritional Benefits	Culinary Uses
Low in calories and fat	Can be enjoyed raw in salads or slaws
High in dietary fiber	Great for cooking in stir-fries or soups
Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants	Juiced for refreshing beverages
Contains potassium and folate	Can be sliced into chips for a healthy snack

Celeriac

Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a fantastic alternative to kohlrabi in recipes. It boasts a comparable mild and earthy flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for soups, stews, and salads. Celeriac is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and phosphorus.

It can be boiled, roasted, or mashed to create a variety of delicious dishes. Furthermore, celeriac has a long shelf life and can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks, making it a convenient and practical ingredient to have on hand.

Collards

Collards are a nutrient-rich leafy green vegetable that can serve as a great substitute for kohlrabi in various dishes. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and fiber, collards can be cooked in a similar way to kohlrabi by sautéing, steaming, or braising them.

They offer a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that can complement a variety of dishes, making them a delicious and nutritious alternative to kohlrabi in stir-fries, soups, and salads.

Fun Fact: With a long history dating back to ancient times, collards were highly valued for their nutritional value and were often used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Evidence of their cultivation has been found in ancient Greece and Rome. Today, collards continue to be a popular and versatile vegetable in many cultures around the world.

Swiss Chards

When looking for a replacement for kohlrabi, consider using Swiss chard. This leafy green vegetable has a similar texture and slightly bitter taste to kohlrabi and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, stir-fries, and soups. Not only is Swiss chard tasty, but it is also packed with nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin A, and potassium, making it a healthy choice. So, if you’re unable to find kohlrabi or are looking to try something new, give Swiss chard a try.

I have a personal experience with this substitute. A friend of mine once planned to make a kohlrabi salad for a dinner party, but the grocery store was completely out of kohlrabi. She decided to use Swiss chard instead, and it was a hit! The fresh and vibrant flavors of the Swiss chard were loved by everyone, and it added a beautiful pop of color to the salad. Since then, Swiss chard has become a regular ingredient in her kitchen.

Malabar Spinach

Malabar Spinach is a nutritious and flavorful substitute for kohlrabi. This leafy green vegetable is packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, making it a great addition to any diet. Its mild and slightly tangy taste makes it versatile for use in salads, stir-fries, soups, and curries. Unlike kohlrabi, Malabar Spinach has a tender and succulent texture, rather than a crunchy one. For an extra burst of flavor, try sautéing it with garlic and olive oil before adding it to your dishes.