Commonly, turnip leaves are cooked in boiling water. There are many ways to flavor this precious vegetable, starting with a simple addition of butter, salt and pepper. Read the article if you want to know more.
Ingrediants
For 4 servings
- 340 g of turnip leaves
- 15 - 30 ml of lemon juice
- 15 ml of butter or extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Prepare the turnip leaves
Step 1. Wash the leaves
Rinse them under cold running water, gently rubbing them with your fingers.
- Dry them with a salad spinner, or use absorbent paper or kitchen cloth to pat or spread them out in the air.
- If you prefer, you can wash the leaves by immersing them in the sink, or in a bowl, filled with water. Wait a few minutes for the earth residues to loosen. Rinse them quickly under running water before drying them.
Step 2. Remove the stems
Cut each leaf at the base with a sharp knife.
During this operation, observe the leaves and eliminate any limp or damaged areas
Step 3. Break the leaves
Tear them into small pieces with your fingers.
- Each piece should be about 1 - 1.5 cm in size.
- If you prefer, chop the leaves with a sharp knife.
Step 4. Sprinkle them with lemon juice
Mix them gently with your hands to distribute the liquid evenly.
Let them rest for at least 5 minutes. The lemon juice will favor the activation of the enzyme myrosinase and will increase the quantities of isothiocyanates. Also, the juice will prevent the leaves from sagging in the short term
Part 2 of 3: Cook the Turnip Leaves
Step 1. Boil some water in a saucepan
Fill it halfway and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high or medium-high heat.
- Choose a large pot, preferably 5 or 6 liters. Although a smaller pot is unsuitable, even one that is too large could unnecessarily prolong cooking times.
- If possible, prefer an iron pot with a lid, similar to those used for cooking over an open fire.
Step 2. Add the turnip leaves and cook them
Put the leaves in the pot and cover with a lid. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes or until tender.
Many cooks prefer to extend the cooking time by reducing the intensity of the heat. Try simmering the leaves slightly for 45 to 60 minutes
Step 3. Drain the turnip leaves by pouring them into a colander
While they are in the colander, press them lightly to remove excess water, use your hands or a wooden spoon
Step 4. Season the leaves with butter, salt and pepper
Transfer the leaves to a large skillet and add the butter, salt, and pepper. Stir to flavor them with the new ingredients.
- If you want a healthier alternative, replace the butter with extra virgin olive oil.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. If you are unsure of the quantities, start with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Season, mix, taste and add more if desired.
Step 5. Serve immediately
Transfer the turnip leaves to the plates and bring them to the table.
Part 3 of 3: Alternatives
Step 1. Replace the cooking water with chicken broth, the leaves will absorb it and become tastier
Step 2. Add bacon or ham to the cooking liquid
They will be able to compensate for the natural bitter taste of turnip leaves.
- 250 g of pork will be enough to flavor the cooking water. Brown the meat and then add it to the pot, along with the cooking juices, when you start cooking the leaves.
- If you wish, add a chopped medium onion and a pinch of sugar.
Step 3. Cook the turnip leaves in a pan
Instead of boiling them in a pot, sauté the leaves in a pan with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Cook them until tender.
- Depending on the desired degree of cooking, it will take from 5 to 15 minutes.
- If you love delicious preparations, replace the oil with bacon fat.
- The sautéed turnip leaves will keep their crunchiness and their bright green color.
Step 4. Sprinkle the cooked leaves with an aromatic dressing
Choose your favorite vinaigrette or salad dressing.
- Balsamic or apple vinegar adds a sweet and sour note to the leaves, choose your favorite.
- Get inspired by Asian flavors using soy sauce or teriyaki sauce. Add grated almonds or noodles.
Step 5. Saute the leaves in the pan with some additional ingredients
- Add, for example, finely chopped garlic or onion. Sauté them before pouring the leaves into the pan.
- Give your dish a spicy and spicy note with chilli or paprika powder.
Step 6. Cook the turnip leaves with other vegetables to add flavor to your dish
Combine with cabbage and mustard leaves. Boil them in equal parts and add salt, oil, garlic, bacon and sugar to the cooking water.
