To Stew Turnip. Mrs. Eckhart. Recipe

History of Stewed Turnips:

Stewed turnips have been a staple dish in many households for centuries. The humble turnip, with its slightly sweet and earthy flavor, has been cultivated since ancient times. Originally native to Europe and Western Asia, turnips were introduced to North America in the 16th century by European settlers.

Fun Facts about Turnips:

1. Turnips are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
2. Turnips belong to the cruciferous vegetable family, which also includes broccoli, cabbage, and kale.
3. In folklore, turnips were often associated with protection against evil spirits and used as a carving vegetable before pumpkins became popular for Halloween.

Now, let's move on to the recipe for Mrs. Eckhart's Stewed Turnips:

Ingredients:
- 4 large turnips
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/4 cup cream

Instructions:

1. Start by peeling the turnips and cutting them in half. Then, use a slaw cutter or a sharp knife to slice them into thin, even strips.

2. Place the sliced turnips in a pot and cover them with clear water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the turnips until they are tender. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes.

3. Once the turnips are cooked, drain the water and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sugar, salt, and pepper to the pot, and stir well to coat the turnips evenly.

4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and cream until well combined. Add this mixture to the pot with the turnips, stirring constantly.

5. Continue to cook the turnips over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a consistency similar to peas. This usually takes around 5 minutes.

6. When the stewed turnips have reached the desired thickness, remove the pot from the heat. Transfer the dish to sauce dishes for serving.

Serve the stewed turnips as a side dish alongside roasted meats, or enjoy them on their own as a comforting and flavorful vegetable dish.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

Stewed turnips can be enjoyed in various ways, and there are similar recipe dishes that you might also enjoy:

1. Roasted Turnips: Instead of stewing, try roasting turnips for a different flavor and texture. Toss peeled and cubed turnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Turnip and Potato Mash: Create a creamy and hearty side dish by combining cooked turnips and potatoes. Mash them together with butter, milk, salt, and pepper for a comforting and flavorful alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

3. Turnip and Carrot Soup: Turnips and carrots make a delicious combination in a hearty soup. Sauté diced turnips and carrots with onion and garlic, then add vegetable broth and simmer until the vegetables are tender. Blend the mixture until smooth, and season with herbs and spices to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread.

4. Pickled Turnips: For a tangy and pickled twist, try making pickled turnips. Slice peeled turnips into thin strips or rounds and place them in jars. In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then pour it over the turnips in the jars. Allow the pickled turnips to cool before refrigerating. They make a great addition to salads, sandwiches, or mezze platters.

Explore the versatility of turnips and experiment with different cooking methods and flavor combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable.