Make root vegetables more interesting with these tips

Root vegetables are an important staple in many diets due to their high nutritional content and versatility. These root veggies include potatoes, sweet potatoes, turnips, rutabagas, beets, carrots, parsnips, celeriac, salsify and more. Despite their nutritional benefits however, root vegetables can often become boring or repetitive when cooked the same way over and over again, they can often be quite bland. With a little creativity, though, they can be transformed into delicious and interesting dishes. In this blog post, we will discuss some cooking tips for root vegetables that will help you make the most of them. We will also show you how to use the hasselback cooking technique to make them even more appealing. So don't let root vegetables get you down – with these tips, they'll be your new best friend!

There are ways to cook root vegetables to make them more interesting

Cooking root vegetables can be a daunting task, as they are often considered to be quite bland and unappealing. However, with the help of creativity and clever cooking techniques, root vegetables can become much more interesting and flavorful. This is why it is important to take the time to get creative when preparing root vegetables. By experimenting with different cooking techniques and flavors, you can add great depth and complexity to these root vegetables.

Roasting

One easy way to cook root vegetables is to roast them. There is no way to go wrong and this is the default method when you are in doubt. Roasting root veggies brings out their natural sweetness and adds a hint of smokiness. To do this, preheat your oven to 400º F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place root vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast until root vegetables are tender, about 25 minutes for carrots and parsnips, 50 minutes for beets and turnips..

In winter, mixed root vegetables make a great traybake.

Herbs and spices

The well known way to make root vegetables more flavorful is to add herbs and spices when cooking. Try adding a bit of garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or basil to the root vegetable mix. This is a great way to add an extra layer of flavor without adding any fat or calories.

Hasselback

One of the most popular cooking techniques for root vegetables is hasselbacking. Hasselback root vegetables are roasted root veggies that have been sliced into thin strips and then spread apart for a fan-like appearance. This process entails slicing root vegetables into thin slices so that each slice is slightly overlapping with the one next to it. The result is a vegetable that resembles an accordion, offering more surface area for seasoning and a more interesting presentation.

To create this look, slice root vegetables lengthwise about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the root vegetable slices apart and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then roast in the preheated oven until root vegetables are tender, about 25 minutes for parsnips and carrots, 50 minutes for turnips and beets. This technique can be used on all sorts of root vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips.

No need to peel

For best results, try to wash your vegetables well and scrub them with a brush before cooking them. This way you will take advantage of everything your vegetables have to offer. The skin of vegetables is where most of the fiber and flavor is found. You may like to peel potatoes for mash, but carrots and beets lose color if we peel them, they just need a good rinse and scrub. The skin of these vegetables contains fiber. Additionally, some recipes call for the use of the skin to achieve the desired flavor.

Great raw

Parsnips deliver a delightful combination of sweet and nutty nuances in flavor. Not only are they a touch scrumptious when enjoyed raw, but they bring true zest to any slaw dish. Cut them into slices or julienne them finely, whip up a homemade slaw sauce, stir in a handful of parsnips – paradise!

Make a memorable dish with raw striped beets! Thinly slice them using the mandoline for uniform slices, then toss in olive oil - top it off with some crunchy toasted nuts and a creamy mustard dressing. Enjoy an unforgettable meal of contrasting textures and flavors.

Add cheese

Transform this winter's root veggies into a delectable dish with the help of your favorite cheeses. A unique combination like celeriac and potatoes, filled to perfection with fetta, cheddar or gruyere cheese is sure to create an indulgent comfort food pie worth savoring! Or even better, bring out the flavor profiles in most root vegetables by topping them off with tangy blue cheese for added contrast.

Perfect soups

As the weather cools and nights grow longer, it's time to toast your taste buds with a delicious bowl of soup! Head into autumn and pass the winter in style by simmering chunks of peeled root vegetables in stock, finishing the soup with some cream or cream cheese.

The speediest soup is made warming already cooked root vegetables in stock.

Sweet vegetables like parsnips go well with spices such as turmeric and cumin. For extra sweet vegetables such as beets, think of an extra level of tanginess and consider adding a dollop of yogurt for flavor balance. Enjoy this comforting treat on any chilly day - warm from the oven to your table in minutes.

Use your creativity when cooking root vegetables and experiment

Using root vegetables to make creative dishes is a great way to add variety and nutrition to your diet. With these tips and tricks in mind, root vegetables can become a regular part of your meal plan. Experiment with different cooking techniques and flavors to make root vegetables more interesting, flavorful and visually appealing. Try the hasselback technique to add a bit of flair to your root vegetables and you will be sure to impress your friends and family. Hasselback root vegetables are sure to be a hit. So don’t hesitate – root vegetables are just the beginning of a delicious journey.

Good luck, and happy cooking!