Kohlrabi (pronounced cole-rah-bee) is in season now. This funny looking vegetable is so versatile and delicious. Try it raw in a crunchy slaw, blended into a velvety soup, or in place of rice for a low-carb side.
Though it looks like a root, kohlrabi is actually a bulb that grows above ground. It’s in the same family as cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower.
When eaten raw, kohlrabi is crunchy and mildly peppery, like radishes. When cooked, it becomes slightly tender and sweeter (similar to turnips and parsnips). The skin, while colorful, is slightly tough and won’t soften when cooked. Go ahead and peel first.
You’ll find both green and purple varieties though they taste the same. Look for firm, solid bulbs. Refrigerate unpeeled bulbs in your crisper drawer for about 2 weeks.
If leaves are attached, remove and reserve for other recipes. Cook them as you would kale. Cut a thin slice off the bottom so the bulb sits flat. Peel off the tough outer skin with a vegetable peeler. Slice into quarters, lengthwise, then cut out the core from each piece. Dice, slice, or shave per recipe instructions. Roast kohlrabi to bring out its naturally sweet and nutty flavor.
Only 37 calories per 1 cup of raw diced kohlrabi. 472 mg potassium per cup of diced kohlrabi, or as much as a medium banana. Potassium is essential for keeping your heart and nervous system working in top condition.
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