Purple Top Turnips

Common turnips are made up of edible roots, stems and leaves. Several stems of the plant sprout from the bulbous root into broad green leaves. The root itself is roughly 3 inches in diameter, two-toned with magenta blushed tops and white bottoms that flow into the bulb's tapered thin taproot. Often, the taproot is trimmed before being sold in a supermarket. Turnips have a similar flavor and texture to radishes. Their bone white flesh is firm, crunchy succulent, earthy sweet and peppery. Turnips are a quintessential cellar vegetable utilized in many classic European dishes. It was Escoffier who embellished the turnip's culinary attributes, elevating its purpose in dishes such as navets farces (stuffed turnips) and Navarin a la Printaniere (Young turnips with Spring Lamb). Turnips can be utilized for fresh eating when young, though they are truly transformed, their flesh softened and their flavors rich and sweet, when cooked. Best cooking methods are braising, simmering, slow roasting and sauteing. Turnips can also be made into smooth purees and soups. Turnips pair well with other root vegetables such as beets, parsnips and carrots. They also pair with rich meats such as pork, beef, sausages and game. Other complimentary ingredients include butter, cream, cheese, chives, chestnuts, garlic, citrus, mushrooms, parsley, potatoes, tarragon, thyme and vinegar.