All Parts of the Kohlrabi Plant Are Edible
Kohlrabi, whose name is German for "cabbage turnip," is a cool-weather vegetable in the Brassica family, making it a relative of broccoli, cabbage, and kale. While many home cooks only use the bulbous stem, the entire plant is edible and offers distinct textures and flavors. Understanding how to prepare each component allows you to maximize the use of this nutritious vegetable, rich in fiber and vitamin C.
The Bulb
The most commonly consumed part of the plant, the kohlrabi bulb is a swollen, above-ground stem. It has a crisp, juicy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of radish-like pepperiness when raw. When cooked, its sweetness intensifies, and it develops a softer texture similar to a cooked broccoli stem.
- Preparation: Before eating, always peel the tough, fibrous outer layer of the bulb. The skin can be green or purple, but the flesh inside is always a pale yellow. A sharp knife is often more effective than a vegetable peeler for thicker skins.
- Serving Raw: For salads or slaws, thinly slice or shred the peeled bulb. Its refreshing crunch and mild flavor make it an excellent addition. It can also be cut into sticks for a healthy snack or served with dips.
- Serving Cooked: The bulb is incredibly versatile when cooked. It can be diced and added to soups and stews, roasted with other root vegetables, or boiled and mashed like potatoes. The cooking process softens the texture and brings out its sweeter notes.
The Leaves and Stems
Often discarded, the kohlrabi leaves and stems are both delicious and highly nutritious. The greens are similar to collard greens or kale and can be prepared in the same manner.
- Leaves: The young, tender leaves can be thinly sliced and added raw to salads for a fresh, mild flavor. More mature leaves are best cooked. They can be sautéed, steamed, or braised until tender.
- Stems: The stems, or ribs, attached to the leaves are also edible. They are great for adding to stir-fries or sautéing alongside the leaves. Just remember that the stems will need a little more cooking time than the tender leaves.
Comparison of Edible Kohlrabi Parts
| Feature | Kohlrabi Bulb (Peeled) | Kohlrabi Leaves | Kohlrabi Stems (with Leaves) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Served | Raw or cooked | Cooked (mature) or raw (young) | Cooked |
| Texture | Crisp, juicy, crunchy when raw; tender when cooked | Tender when young; sturdy when mature | Firm, becomes tender when cooked |
| Flavor | Mild, sweet, slightly peppery (raw) | Mild, similar to kale or collards | Similar to leaves, but slightly more vegetal |
| Preparation | Peel thick skin, then chop, slice, shred | Wash thoroughly, chop or tear | Wash, chop, and cook until tender |
| Best Uses | Slaws, salads, stir-fries, roasting, mashing | Sautéed greens, salads, soups, braises | Stir-fries, sautéed dishes, soups |
Maximizing the Kohlrabi Harvest
To get the most out of your kohlrabi, it is essential to use both the bulb and the greens. When you bring your kohlrabi home, trim the leaves and stems from the bulb. Cook the leaves within a few days to preserve their freshness, while the bulb can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. By utilizing the entire plant, you reduce food waste and enjoy the full range of flavors and nutrients this vegetable has to offer.
Kohlrabi Varieties
Various kohlrabi varieties offer slightly different flavors and characteristics, but all parts remain edible. Smaller bulbs are generally sweeter and more tender, while larger ones can become woody if not harvested in time. Varieties like 'White Vienna' and 'Purple Vienna' are popular choices known for their quality.
A Culinary Treasure Worth Exploring
Despite its unusual appearance, kohlrabi is a versatile and flavorful vegetable that deserves a place in your kitchen. The entire plant, from the crisp, juicy bulb to the nutritious leaves and stems, is edible and can be used in a variety of delicious dishes. By embracing all its parts, you can add new textures and flavors to your meals while reducing food waste. The next time you see this curious vegetable at the farmers market, don't hesitate to give it a try. For some recipe inspiration, explore the different ways to prepare kohlrabi.
Explore kohlrabi recipes and cooking methods at Simply Recipes
