Turnips are a root vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked. They are a rare keto-friendly root vegetable, as most root vegetables are forbidden on keto. They are low in calories and high in fibre, and a good source of vitamins C and K, folate and potassium. Turnips can be enjoyed in moderation while on a keto or low-carb diet, as they are low in carbs, with one cup of cubed raw turnips containing about 8 grams of total carbs. However, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes, as too many turnips can push you over your daily carb limit.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Keto-friendly | Yes |
Carbohydrates | 6-8g per cup |
Net carbs | 4.6-6g per cup |
Calories | 34 per cup |
Protein | 1.1g per cup |
Fat | 0.1g per cup |
Sugar | 4g per serving |
Fiber | 3g per serving |
Vitamin A | Yes |
Vitamin B6 | Yes |
Vitamin C | Yes |
Vitamin K | Yes |
What You'll Learn
Turnips are a keto-friendly root vegetable
Turnips are part of the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, rutabaga, and radish, and they have a similar taste. They are typically grown in the spring and fall, but can be found year-round in grocery stores.
Turnips are round and bulbous with leafy stems sprouting from the top, though they come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. The most common varieties are purple-top turnips and baby white turnips. The former is usually more mature and can be more bitter in taste, while the latter is smaller, sweeter, and slightly peppery.
Turnips are a good source of vitamins A, B6, C, and K, as well as fiber, and are low in calories. They can be boiled, roasted, fried, or eaten raw, and are often used as a substitute for potatoes in dishes like fries, mashed potatoes, and scalloped potatoes.
When incorporating turnips into a keto diet, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes to ensure you do not exceed your daily carb limit. They are also low in fats, so be sure to supplement them with foods that are high in healthy fats, such as virgin olive oil, grass-fed butter, and MCT oil.
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They are low in carbs
Turnips are a keto-friendly root vegetable. They are low in carbs, with one cup of cubed raw turnips containing about 8 grams of total carbs, including 3 grams of fibre. This equates to 5 grams of net carbs in one cup of cooked turnips, making them a great low-carb option.
Turnips are a good substitute for potatoes on keto, as they have a similar texture and can be used in similar dishes. For example, you can roast turnips, make turnip mash, or add them to soups and stews. They also have a slightly sweet and earthy flavour that pairs well with a variety of spices.
Turnips are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as folate and potassium. They are also high in fibre, which can promote digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, turnips contain antioxidants that can protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
When incorporating turnips into a keto diet, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes. While they are low in carbs, consuming too many turnips can push you over your daily carb limit. It is recommended to limit net carb consumption to 20-30 grams per day.
Turnips are also low in fat, so it is important to supplement them with foods that are high in healthy fats, such as virgin olive oil, grass-fed butter, and MCT oil. These healthy fat sources will provide your body with the energy it needs while in ketosis.
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Turnips are a good substitute for potatoes
Turnips are part of the Brassica family, which also includes cabbage, rutabaga, and radish, and they are typically grown in the spring and fall. They are round and bulbous at the base with leafy stems sprouting from the top, though there are many different types of turnips that come in various shapes, sizes, and colours. Most grocers sell the more mature, purple-top turnips or baby, white turnips.
The trick to a non-bitter turnip dish is to use smaller turnips, as the larger ones tend to be more bitter, and to boil them with lots of water without covering them. You can also roast them to allow the sugars to come out and make them even sweeter.
Turnips can be prepared in many of the same ways as potatoes. They can be boiled, roasted, grilled, or mashed, and they can even be eaten raw. When preparing turnip fries, it is important to cut them into matchsticks, add oil and seasonings, and bake them at a high temperature to get them crispy.
Turnips are a great way to reduce your carb intake and satisfy your cravings for potatoes without taking on all the carbs. They are a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes and are a good option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
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They are high in fibre and vitamins C and K
Turnips are a keto-friendly root vegetable. They are an exception to the rule that most root vegetables are forbidden on keto. With 6 g of net carbs per 1 cup serving, they can fit within your daily carb limits.
Turnips are high in fibre and vitamins C and K. Fibre helps to reduce pressure and inflammation in the colon and can help prevent intestinal problems such as diverticulitis. Fibre-rich foods also help to keep blood sugar levels stable.
Vitamin C, found in high quantities in turnips, improves iron absorption and helps regulate blood cholesterol. It also protects your body from free radical damage.
Vitamin K, meanwhile, plays an essential role as a clotting agent, helping to prevent excessive bleeding. It also plays a key role in bone metabolism.
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Turnips can be roasted, mashed, or fried
Turnips can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, mashing, and frying. Here are some methods and recipes to try:
Roasted Turnips
Roasting is a great way to prepare turnips, bringing out their natural sweetness. Here are the steps to make delicious roasted turnips:
- Preheat your oven to 350° F.
- Peel the turnips and cut them into 1/2-inch slices.
- Combine the turnips with minced garlic, olive oil, and fresh or dried rosemary on a baking sheet.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 35 minutes, then increase the temperature to 450° F and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the turnips are tender and slightly coloured.
Mashed Turnips
Mashed turnips make an excellent alternative to mashed potatoes and can be prepared in a similar way. Here's a simple recipe:
- Peel and dice the turnips.
- Boil the turnips until they are fork-tender, about 20-30 minutes.
- Drain the water and add butter, salt, pepper, and a little sugar to taste.
- Mash the turnips with a potato masher until you reach your desired consistency.
For an extra creamy version, try adding some sour cream and chives to the mashed turnips.
Turnip Fries
If you're craving French fries, turnip fries are a great low-carb alternative. Here's how to make them:
- Preheat your oven to 425° F.
- Peel the turnips and cut them into matchsticks.
- Add oil, onion powder, and paprika to a bag or bowl, then coat the turnips in the mixture.
- Pour oil into a baking pan and place it in the oven for 5 minutes.
- Carefully add the coated turnips to the hot oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for about 25 minutes, until they start to crisp up.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, turnips are a rare keto-friendly root vegetable. They are low in carbs, which makes them a good option for those following a ketogenic diet.
According to the USDA, one cup of cubed raw turnips contains about 8 grams of total carbs.
There are several keto-friendly ways to cook turnips, including roasting them, making turnip fries, mashing them, or adding them to soups and stews.
Turnips are a nutritious vegetable that is high in fiber and low in calories. They are also a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and potassium.