Kohlrabi

The Kool and Krunchy Veggie You Need to Try

Have you ever seen a kohlrabi at the farmers’ market or grocery store and wondered what it is and how to use it? If so, you’re not alone. Kohlrabi is one of those vegetables that often gets overlooked or ignored, but it deserves more attention and appreciation.

Kohlrabi is a member of the cruciferous family, along with broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. It has a bulbous shape, a purple or green skin, and long leafy stems. It tastes like a cross between a radish and a turnip, with a mild, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor. It’s also crunchy, juicy, and refreshing, making it perfect for salads, slaws, and snacks.

But that’s not all. Kohlrabi is also super nutritious, versatile, and easy to cook. Here are some of the reasons why you should give kohlrabi a try and some tips on how to prepare it in new and exciting ways.

Why Kohlrabi Is Good for You
Kohlrabi is a powerhouse of nutrients that can benefit your health in many ways. Here are some of the nutrients that you can get from one cup (135 grams) of raw kohlrabi:

• Calories: 37

• Carbs: 8 grams

• Fiber: 5 grams

• Protein: 2 grams

• Vitamin C: 93% of the Daily Value (DV)

• Vitamin B6: 12% of the DV

• Potassium: 10% of the DV

• Magnesium: 6% of the DV

• Manganese: 8% of the DV

• Folate: 5% of the DV

As you can see, kohlrabi is low in calories but high in fiber, which can help you feel full and support your digestion. It’s also an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can protect your cells from damage, boost your immune system, and support your skin and wound healing. Moreover, it’s a good source of vitamin B6, which is essential for your metabolism, brain function, and red blood cell production.

It’s also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate your blood pressure, fluid balance, and nerve and muscle function. Additionally, kohlrabi provides other minerals, such as magnesium, manganese, and folate, that are important for your bones, enzymes, and DNA

But that’s not all! Kohlrabi is also rich in phytochemicals, such as glucosinolates, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, that have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic effects. Studies have shown that kohlrabi and other cruciferous vegetables can help lower the risk of various chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and detoxification.

How to Cook Kohlrabi in New and Exciting Ways
Kohlrabi is a versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked in various ways. You can peel it and slice it into sticks, cubes, or wedges, or grate it or spiralize it into noodles. You can also use the leaves and stems, which are edible and tasty. Here are some new and exciting recipes for preparing kohlrabi:

• Kohlrabi and Apple Slaw: This refreshing and crunchy slaw is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue. Simply toss some julienned kohlrabi and apple with some lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh dill. You can also add some yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier texture.

• Roasted Kohlrabi with Parmesan: This easy and cheesy side dish is a great way to enjoy the roasted flavor of kohlrabi. Just coat some kohlrabi wedges with some olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic, and bake them until tender and golden. Then sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil until melted and bubbly.

• Kohlrabi Noodles with Bacon and Parmesan: This low-carb and delicious dish is a great alternative to pasta. Just spiralize some kohlrabi into noodles and cook them in a skillet with some bacon, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Then toss with some grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy.

These are just some of the ways that you can cook kohlrabi in new and exciting ways. There are many more recipes that you can find online or create yourself. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion
Kohlrabi is a cool and crunchy veggie that you need to try. It’s not only nutritious but also delicious. It can add variety, color, and flavor to your diet. It can also help you stay healthy and prevent diseases. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try kohlrabi and enjoy its benefits and tastes!

- By Betsey Sorrell