What Does Kohlrabi Taste Like? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Flavor Profile and Whether It’s Enjoyable

If you’re wondering what kohlrabi tastes like, you’re not alone.

Kohlrabi is a lesser-known vegetable that is often overlooked in the produce section.

However, it’s worth giving this unique vegetable a try, as it has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other vegetables.

So, what does kohlrabi taste like?

When eaten raw, kohlrabi has a mild, sweet flavor that is often compared to a combination of broccoli stems and turnips. The texture is crisp and crunchy, similar to that of a radish or jicama. When cooked, kohlrabi takes on a more delicate flavor and texture, similar to that of a potato or a mild turnip.

Whether raw or cooked, kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes.

What Is Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi, also known as German turnip or cabbage turnip, is a part of the Brassica family, which includes other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.

It is a cool-season vegetable that grows best in the spring and fall. Kohlrabi is a unique-looking vegetable, with a bulb-like shape and stems that grow out of it. The bulb can be green, white, or purple, and the leaves are green and slightly ruffled.

When you peel away the outer layers of kohlrabi, you’ll find a crisp, juicy, and slightly sweet flesh that’s similar to a turnip or radish.

The taste is mild, with a hint of peppery spice, and the texture is crunchy, like an apple or jicama. The leaves of kohlrabi are also edible and can be cooked like other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard.

Kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. It can be sliced and added to salads, slaws, or sandwiches for a refreshing crunch.

It can also be steamed, roasted, or stir-fried and used as a side dish or added to soups and stews.

Kohlrabi is a low-calorie vegetable that’s high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

In summary, kohlrabi is a unique-looking vegetable that has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a crunchy texture. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked and is a healthy addition to your diet.

What Does Kohlrabi Taste Like?

If you’ve never tasted kohlrabi before, you may be wondering what it tastes like. Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family and is often described as having a mild, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor.

When raw, kohlrabi has a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste, making it a great addition to salads and slaws. Its lightly spicy crunch plays well with cabbage, carrots, and greens. Diced kohlrabi is a nice addition to soups and stews, and can be treated like other root vegetables like turnips.

Cooked kohlrabi has a softer texture and a milder flavor. It can be roasted, sautéed, or steamed and used as a side dish or added to stir-fries. Some people compare the taste of cooked kohlrabi to that of broccoli or cauliflower.

It’s important to note that the taste of kohlrabi can vary depending on the variety and how it’s prepared. Some varieties may have a slightly bitter taste, while others may be sweeter. Additionally, the taste can be influenced by the soil and weather conditions in which it was grown.

In general, if you enjoy the taste of other cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or cabbage, you’ll likely enjoy the taste of kohlrabi.

And even if you’re not a fan of those vegetables, it’s worth giving kohlrabi a try as its unique flavor and texture may surprise you.

How to Cook and Serve Kohlrabi?

Cooking and serving kohlrabi is easy and versatile. Here are a few ways to prepare this delicious vegetable:

Raw

Kohlrabi can be eaten raw, and it tastes great when sliced into thin strips and added to salads. You can also grate it and mix it with other grated vegetables to make a slaw.

Steamed

Steaming kohlrabi is a great way to preserve its flavor and nutrients. Simply cut it into small pieces and steam for about 10 minutes until tender. You can then season it with salt and pepper or add it to soups and stews.

Roasted

Roasting kohlrabi is another great option. Cut it into small pieces, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes until tender and golden brown. You can also add other roasted vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes for a delicious side dish.

Mashed

Kohlrabi can also be mashed like potatoes. Simply boil until tender, mash with butter and cream, and season with salt and pepper. This makes a great side dish or a base for a shepherd’s pie.

Pickled

Pickling kohlrabi is a great way to add some tangy flavor to this vegetable. Cut it into thin slices, add to a jar with vinegar, sugar, and spices, and let it sit in the fridge for a few days until pickled. You can then use it as a topping for sandwiches or burgers.

In conclusion, kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked and served in many ways. Experiment with different methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious and nutritious vegetable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, kohlrabi is a unique and versatile vegetable that has a distinct taste that is often compared to broccoli stems or radishes.

It has a mild, sweet flavor with a slight peppery taste that is not overpowering. The texture of kohlrabi can vary depending on how it is prepared, but it is generally crunchy and firm.

If you enjoy the taste of broccoli stems, you will likely enjoy kohlrabi as well. It can be eaten raw or cooked and can be used in a variety of dishes such as salads, slaws, soups, and stir-fries. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal.

Kohlrabi is also a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. It is a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet or for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Overall, if you have never tried kohlrabi before, it is definitely worth giving it a try. Its unique taste and versatility make it a great addition to any meal.