Make the Most of Kohlrabi With These Recipes

By
Lizz Schumer
Lizz Schumer
Lizz Schumer
A journalist, writer, and author, Lizz Schumer has 10+ years of experience covering food and drink for a wide variety of well-known print and online publications.
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Published on 05/28/21
Roasted kohlrabi recipe

The Spruce

If you've never cooked with kohlrabi before, now's the time to start. Kohlrabi counts cabbage, broccoli, collard greens, and Brussels sprouts among its relatives. It tastes similar to broccoli stems, with a mild, slightly peppery flavor. The versatile vegetable works similarly to turnips or rutabaga in most recipes and can be cooked in a variety of ways or shredded and served raw for some crunch.

When choosing kohlrabi at the market or grocery store, look for bulbs that still have their leaves attached if possible. A kohlrabi bulb should be softball-sized, be firm and solid and not give when squeezed, and feel heavy in your hand. Always peel off the tough outer skin before eating since it won't break down when cooking and store in the crisper drawer before using.

  • 01 of 06

    Carrot, Cabbage, and Kohlrabi Slaw

    Carrot, Cabbage and Kohlrabi Slaw with Miso Dressing

    The Spruce / Katie Workman

    An umami-rich soy, ginger, and miso dressing gives this simple carrot, cabbage, and kohlrabi slaw a bit of Japanese flare. Try it alongside any Asian-inspired meals or piled atop a burger or chicken patty for some crunch. Because the dressing will make the veggies soggy over time, make it no more than six hours ahead.

  • 02 of 06

    Roasted Kohlrabi

    Roasted kohlrabi recipe

    The Spruce

    When roasted, kohlrabi mellows out into a nice toasty sweetness with a hint of pepper. Just a little olive oil and sea salt will highlight the vegetable, which works great as a side for just about any protein.

  • 03 of 06

    Kohlrabi Fritters

    Kohlrabi Fritters

    The Spruce / Molly Watson

    Instead of the typical potatoes, grate kohlrabi and turn it into simple fritters for a fun twist on traditional starchy cakes. Frying up the cruciferous vegetable gives it a similar flavor to cabbage or broccoli stems, perfect for topping with applesauce, sour cream, or even salsa fresca.

  • 04 of 06

    Creamy Kohlrabi Soup

    cream kohlrabi soup

    Roman Maerzinger / Getty Images

    This Hungarian kohlrabi soup, called karalábé leves, comes out creamy and smooth, somewhat similar to cream of broccoli. If you don't eat dairy, swap out the milk for a nondairy substitute for a light starter or a nice lunch with some crusty bread.

    Continue to 5 of 6 below.
  • 05 of 06

    Hungarian Stuffed Kohlrabi

    Stuffed Kohlrabi


    NoirChocolate / Getty Images

    If you like stuffed cabbage rolls, try Hungarian stuffed kohlrabi instead. Hollowed out and filled with pork, beef, veal, lamb, or a mixture as well as garlic and onion, they make a hearty meal. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms and barley, millet, or another sturdy grain.

  • 06 of 06

    Creamy Kohlrabi

    Chicken and kohlrabi side dish

     

    Luzia Ellert / Getty Images

    Kohlrabi in a creamy sauce makes an excellent side for pork, beef, fish, or chicken. Thinned out with broth and scented with nutmeg, the sauce comes out lighter and more delicate than you might imagine, perfectly complimenting the subtle veggie.