21 May 2024

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips

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This Old-Fashioned Mashed Turnips recipe is pure comfort food with a twist—bringing together the earthy sweetness of turnips and the creamy richness of potatoes in one irresistible dish. Passed down from my Grandma (Baba), who grew turnips in her garden, this simple yet flavorful side is a beautiful nod to tradition and proof that humble ingredients can create something truly special. With buttery onions, a hint of garlic, and a silky smooth texture, it’s the perfect companion for your favorite main course—think roasted chicken, beef stew, or even grilled fish. If you’re craving a rustic, cozy side dish that feels both nostalgic and delicious, this one’s for you!

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips
Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips: A Little Taste of Baba’s Garden

Growing up, my grandma - Baba as we lovingly call her - always had a thriving garden, and turnips were a staple in it. She used to say, “If you grow it, you eat it,” and Baba made sure nothing went to waste. This mashed turnip recipe was one of her specialties and easily became one of my favorites. The earthy, slightly sweet flavor of turnips mixed with creamy potatoes and buttery onions is just pure comfort. It’s rustic, simple, and tastes like a warm hug in a bowl.

Now that I live in Melbourne, I feel so lucky that turnips are easy to find when they’re in season. Every time I make this dish, it brings me right back to Baba’s kitchen. I love sharing this tradition with my kids, and to my surprise, they adore it too - probably because the potatoes balance out the stronger flavor of turnips, making it smooth and mild with just the right hint of sweetness.

If you’re on the hunt for other cozy side dishes, we’ve got a lineup of favorites at our table:

But this dish - Baba’s mashed turnips - will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of recipe that connects generations, reminds me of home, and brings a little bit of Baba’s garden to my kitchen.

Give it a try, and let me know what you think! It might just become your new favorite side dish, too.

Best,

Ana

 

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips

Old Fashioned Mashed Turnips is a comforting and flavorful side dish that hails from traditional American and European cuisine. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of turnips with the creaminess of potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 - 6

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g potatoes peeled and cut into chunks
  • 500 g turnips peeled and cut into chunks
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic minced
  • 100 ml milk or to taste
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

For garnish (optional):

  • fresh parsley chopped

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Vegetables: Place the potatoes and turnips in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until both the potatoes and turnips are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Sauté Onions and Garlic: While the vegetables are boiling, melt one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Mash the Mixture: Drain the potatoes and turnips well and return them to the pot. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the pot with the remaining butter and milk. Mash the mixture with a potato masher until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve: Transfer the mashed turnips and potatoes to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite main course.
  • Dobar tek!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed turnips and potatoes in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or butter if needed to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I use only turnips or only potatoes?

Absolutely! If you prefer just turnips, the result will have a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor. Using only potatoes will give you a more classic mashed potato dish. The combination, however, strikes the perfect balance!

What kind of turnips should I use?

Go for fresh, firm turnips with smooth skin. Smaller turnips tend to be sweeter and less bitter than larger ones, making them ideal for this recipe.

How can I make this dish extra creamy?

You can add a dollop of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream while mashing for a richer texture and flavor.

What’s the difference between mashed turnips and mashed rutabagas?

Turnips have a milder, slightly peppery flavor, while rutabagas are sweeter and denser. You can use rutabagas as a substitute in this recipe for a different twist!

Author

  • Ana

    Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.

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Follow Ana:
Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.
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