In praise of the "lowly" parsnip

[Denninmi]

Cross-post to my thread in Gardening.

Had to pull and eat one, even though they are better at the end of winter.

It was still yum, yum, yum.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=246x14946

[kurtzapril4]

1. I've never eaten a parsnip

I've been getting more and more curious about trying some, though. What do they taste similar to?

[Denninmi]

2. Think carrot and potato mixed.

Subtle carrot flavor, more starchy, similar to a white potato in texture. They make awesome french fries, btw.

[Warpy]

3. They're sweeter than carrots, slightly woodier texture

I mostly use them in soups and stews in winter, although they're also great roasted with other veggies in tamari sauce.

[beac]

4. Run, do not walk, to your nearest grocery and buy a few parsnips.

Peel them (like a carrot), cut into frech-fry-like strips, toss in a little corn oil and salt and pepper and roast in a 400-degree oven until lightly browned and crisped. Eat and be in heaven.

Later, once you've become an addict, try them boiled then mashed or roasted w/other winter veggies or sauteed w/mushrooms or made into soup.

SUCH a yummy and under-appreciated veg. :)

[Callalily]

5. Parsnips are yummy . . .

as are all "root" vegetables. ;-)

[Graybeard]

6. Great in soups.

I wouldn't think of making my soups without them. They add a wonderful sweetness and crunch. Try carrots, potatoes celery and parsnips for a hearty chicken soup.

[Zoigal]

7. Noticed them at Trader Joes today....all peeled, diced and ready to cook......z

[canetoad]

8. GET OUTTA HERE - shoves in chest a la Elaine

Can't believe that anyone ever falls for that ultimate rip-off, the pre-prepared vegie.

Besides, who told you that parsnips should be peeled and diced?

[Horse with no Name]

9. These are so wonderful!

I take carrots and parsnips and cut them into "french fries", toss them with olive oil, salt and pepper and bake them at 425 until tender--the kids eat them like candy!

They are soooo wonderful! Yummy. May have to go make a purchase today!

I do find that the bigger they are, the tougher they are.