Do you know about kohlrabi?

Wow, kohlrabi! If you're anything like me, you might have first spotted this curious-looking 'space cabbage' at a farmer's market or maybe even in a CSA box and wondered, 'What on earth is that, and what do I do with it?' Well, let me tell you, discovering kohlrabi has been a game-changer in my kitchen! This unique green vegetable, often called a German turnip, is actually a member of the cabbage family. It has a mild, slightly sweet, and peppery taste, a bit like a cross between a radish and a water chestnut, with a satisfyingly crisp texture. I absolutely love how versatile it is! One of my favorite ways to enjoy fresh kohlrabi, especially the tender green kohlrabi, is simply raw. After peeling off the tougher outer layer (sometimes you don't even need to if it's very young!), I slice it into thin sticks or rounds. These kohlrabi sticks are perfect for dipping into hummus or a creamy dressing, or just munching on their own as a healthy, crunchy snack. They're also fantastic shredded raw into slaws or salads, bringing that lovely crispness without overpowering other flavors. I often make a quick kohlrabi slaw with a tangy vinaigrette – so refreshing! But kohlrabi isn't just for raw eating! It transforms beautifully when cooked. I've found it's delicious roasted with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper – it gets wonderfully tender and slightly caramelized, making it a fantastic side dish. You can also dice it and add it to stir-fries, soups, or stews. For a simple green kohlrabi recipe, I often sauté cubes with garlic and a splash of soy sauce for a quick and tasty side dish. It keeps its shape well and soaks up flavors beautifully, making it a super adaptable vegetable for so many meals. Another idea I recently tried was thinly slicing it and baking it into crispy kohlrabi chips – a healthier alternative to potato chips! And here's a pro tip: don't toss those kohlrabi leaves! They're absolutely edible and packed with nutrients, tasting much like collard greens or kale. I treat them just like any other leafy green. Chop them up and add them to your stir-fries, sauté them with garlic, or even blend them into a green smoothie. Yes, kohlrabi smoothies are a thing, and they're surprisingly refreshing and a great way to boost your daily greens! For those looking into kohlrabi baby puree, the cooked, blended bulbs offer a mild and nutritious option for introducing solids. Beyond its fantastic taste and versatility, kohlrabi also boasts some impressive health benefits. It's a great source of Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which is always a bonus when you're trying to eat healthier. The fiber content is particularly good for digestive health, and the antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body. It's truly a powerhouse vegetable that's easy to incorporate into many diets. If you're wondering where to buy kohlrabi near me, your best bet is usually a local farmer's market, especially if you're looking for the freshest green kohlrabi. Many larger supermarkets also carry it, often in the specialty produce section. Don't be shy to pick one up next time you see it, whether you're in the UK or elsewhere! It's truly a vegetable worth getting to know and experiment with in your kitchen.