Tuesday’s Cupful: What are Turnips?

A root that’s crisp

Yes, this root vegetable has some refreshing bite in its texture.   Turnips embody the root of a flowering plant and belong to the biological family: Brassicaceae.  The plant, related to the mustard family, originated in Asia and spread westward.  Look for a bulbous-round shape with white, red, and purple surfaces in healthy specimens.  The leaves, stems, or greens (aka turnip greens) of this plant are also edible and can be used as like leafy kale, mustard greens, or collard greens.  Expect a slightly bitter but refreshing taste in raw turnips, which are great for different salads.  The Mixed Stew crew likens them to radishes.  Turnips are rich in Vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system and fight heart disease.