Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (2024)

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Learn how to eat and cook kohlrabi, an often misunderstood vegetable that is available at farmers’ markets in the summer. Scalloped kohlrabi is the best way to eat this unique vegetable. It’s a simple recipe that mimics a potato gratin. My family can’t even tell the difference.

Table of Contents

What is kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi is a unique vegetable that can be eaten cooked or raw. It’s a mix between a cabbage and a turnip. Trim the leaves, peel the skin, and then treat it similar to a potato. Boil, roast, steam, or add it to a casserole. Kohlrabi gratin or scalloped kohlrabi is especially tasty, and most people will think it’s just a potato casserole.

Can I eat kohlrabi raw?

Yes, kohlrabi slice or sticks are the perfect addition to a crudité platter. Trim the leaves, peel the skin first. When eaten raw, kohlrabi has the flavor similar to radish but sweeter. Try serving with your favorite veggie dip, or add it to the top of a salad for a little crunch. You’ll find it resembles jicama or fennel.

Scalloped Kohlrabi

We have been recently been getting kohlrabi in our weekly CSA box from the Purdue Student Farm. I’ll be honest, I had no idea what to do with this interesting vegetable. I turned to my favorite cookbook when it comes to vegetables called Vegetables on the Side, The Complete Guide to Buying and Cooking.

Each chapter is dedicated to a vegetable, complete with explanations and recipes. It was here that I learned how to cook kohlrabi. I found a recipe for Kohlrabi Gratin with Onions, which is really just another name for Cheesy Kohlrabi Casserole or Scalloped Kohlrabi.

Ingredient List for Cheesy Scalloped Kohlrabi

  • Butter
  • Kohlrabi
  • Onion
  • All Purpose Flour
  • Milk
  • Salt and Black Pepper
  • Dried Italian Herbs (Oregano, Marjoram, Rosemary, Thyme, Basil, etc)
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese
Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (5)

How to Cook Kohlrabi

Step By Step Instructions

Full ingredient amounts and recipe steps for scalloped kohlrabi can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Recipe Variations

  • Substitute heavy cream or half and half for regular milk.
  • Use a mixture of potatoes and kohlrabi, if needed.
  • Add minced garlic for more flavor.
  • An Italian herb blend can be used or make your own blend with any dried herbs.
  • Instead of Italian herbs, try Herb de Provence instead.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan is my favorite, but in a bind try other types of shredded cheese.
  • Make this a main course by adding cubed ham, bacon or cooked pork sausage in the layers.
  • I love to sprinkle paprika over the top of a cheesy casserole before baking.

Recipe FAQs

  • Any type of casserole dish, soufflé dish, or ovenproof dish will work for this kohlrabi casserole recipe.
  • White or yellow onion works best; however, in a bind, use dried, minced onion.
  • If you only have a couple kohlrabi to use up, either halve the recipe or add a couple potatoes in with the kohlrabi.
  • Have a family who doesn’t like new recipes? Call this kohlrabi gratin a potato gratin or scalloped potatoes and no one will be the wiser.
  • If you are looking for a regular potato dish, try Farmwife Cooks’ Cheese Potato Casserole.

What are the different ways to eat kohlrabi?

  • Raw (trip and peeled first)
  • Sautéed in butter or olive oil (try adding mushrooms and white wine)
  • Roasted
  • Braised in chicken broth
  • Steamed
  • Kohlrabi fritters
  • Boiled
  • Kohlrabi Soup (try adding potatoes, leeks and cream)
  • Kohlrabi Casserole
  • Scalloped kohlrabi or kohlrabi gratin
  • Peeled and cut into matchsticks to top a salad
  • Kohlrabi slaw

Do you eat the skin of kohlrabi?

No, peel the skin of a kohlrabi before eating or preparing. The easiest way to peel is with a vegetable peeler.

What does a kohlrabi taste like?

Eaten raw, kohlrabi has the mild flavor that is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip. Some people also say it tastes like a sweet radish.

Can I eat kohlrabi leaves?

Yes, do not throw those out. Leave the leaves whole or cut into shreds, and then prepare in the same manner that you would beet greens or spinach.

What meat goes with kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi has such a mild flavor that it can be served along any meat or main course. It pairs especially with ham or sausage since it mimics the flavor or a mild cabbage.

Cheesy Casserole Recipes

Ham and Cabbage Casserole

Crockpot Cheesy Potatoes (4 Ingredients)

Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (18)

Print Recipe

How to Cook Kohlrabi – Scalloped Kohlrabi

Learn how to eat and cook kohlrabi, an often misunderstood vegetable that is available at farmers' markets in the summer. Scalloped kohlrabi is the best way to eat kohlrabi.

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time35 minutes mins

Total Time55 minutes mins

Course: Casserole, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Keyword: how to cook kohlrabi, kohlrabi casserole, kohlrabi gratin, scalloped kohlrabi

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 104kcal

Author: Barbara

Ingredients

  • 4 medium kohlrabi
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 Tablespoon butter
  • 1 Tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup milk
  • salt and black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, rosemary, thyme, etc.)
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Trim, peel and slice kohlrabi. Boil in salted water until fork tender about 15 minutes. Drain.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (19)

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Mix sliced onions and drained kohlrabi in the dish.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (20)

  • In a small saucepan, heat milk until bubbles form around the edges.

  • In a separate saucepan, melt butter. Add flour and whisk for 3 minutes over low heat. Add heated milk all at once and stir.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (21)

  • Add herbs and salt and pepper to taste.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (22)

  • Pour over vegetables in the dish. Bake for 20 minutes.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (23)

  • Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (24)

  • Bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly and golden brown.

    Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (25)

Notes

    • Substitute heavy cream or half and half for regular milk.
    • Use a mixture of potatoes and kohlrabi, if needed.
    • Add minced garlic for more flavor.
    • An Italian herb blend can be used or make your own blend with any dried herbs.
    • Instead of Italian herbs, try Herb de Provence instead.
    • Freshly grated Parmesan is my favorite, but in a bind try other types of shredded cheese.
    • Make this a main course by adding cubed ham, bacon or cooked pork sausage in the layers.
    • I love to sprinkle paprika over the top of a cheesy casserole before baking.
    • Love garden recipes? Try these pickled beets. Want to grill some veggies? Try Farmwife Cooks Grilled Marinated Vegetables.
    • The nutritional information below is auto-calculated and can vary depending on the products used. It should not be used for specific dietary needs.

Nutrition

Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 15mg | Sodium: 149mg | Potassium: 454mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 214IU | Vitamin C: 63mg | Calcium: 133mg | Iron: 1mg

Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (26)
Scalloped Kohlrabi Recipe - How to Cook Kohlrabi - These Old Cookbooks (2024)

FAQs

What's the best way to eat kohlrabi? ›

This versatile vegetable can be roasted, steamed, stir-fried, or puréed in a soup. For a simple side dish, sauté the sliced kohlrabi in a bit of butter in a skillet. Once it begins to show some caramelization, season it with salt, nutmeg, and a little sugar​ for increased sweetness.

Do you peel kohlrabi before cooking? ›

Whether you're cooking kohlrabi or serving it raw, you will need to completely peel and discard the thick, tough outer layer (you may need a sharp knife for this; the skin is quite tough and indigestible). Cut the kohlrabi. To enjoy the crunch of raw kohlrabi, you'll want to cut it into delicate pieces.

Can you eat the stems and leaves of kohlrabi? ›

All parts of the kohlrabi are edible, though most people just stick to the bulbous bottom. The leaves and stems are best sautéed or added to a stir-fry. The bulb can be eaten raw, which maintains its super-crisp texture and mild bite, or it can be roasted, sautéed, steamed, or boiled and mashed like a potato.

What does kohlrabi do for your body? ›

Kohlrabi is packed with nutrients that are linked to various health benefits. It's a good source of fiber, which is important for a healthy gut and proper digestion. Plus, its many nutrients and plant compounds support your immune system and may lower your risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and inflammation.

Is kohlrabi a laxative? ›

Like other cruciferous vegetables, the rich dietary fibre in kohlrabi improves digestive health and helps move your bowels. As a result, it reduces constipation, cramping and bloating. With nearly 5 grams of fibre in every cup, kohlrabi supports your gastrointestinal health while maximising nutrient uptake efficiency.

Should you refrigerate raw kohlrabi? ›

Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks. Storage life can be extended if kohlrabi is placed in sealed perforated plastic bags. To prevent cross-contamination, keep kohlrabi away from raw meat and meat juices.

What is the best season for kohlrabi? ›

It is better to grow giant kohlrabi as a fall crop. Direct seed kohlrabi in the garden from mid-April until early May, at one inch spacing, and one-fourth to one-half inch deep. Avoid planting after May 1. The high temperatures will not produce good quality.

Can you eat too much kohlrabi? ›

Kohlrabi is a healthy ingredient, and it's low in calories. Eating too much of any cruciferous vegetable can cause gas that can make you uncomfortable. Moderate your portion sizes to help ensure that you are able to enjoy the benefits of kohlrabi without negative digestive effects.

What does a kohlrabi taste like? ›

What Does Kohlrabi Taste Like? Kohlrabi tastes similar to a broccoli stalk, but a bit more tender and sweet. Don't forget to remove the tough outer peel, then use the bulb either raw or cooked. It can be prepared much like a broccoli stalk, too—if raw, shred it and use it in slaw or thinly slice and use in a salad.

What do we call kohlrabi in English? ›

Kohlrabi (German: [koːlˈʁaːbi]; pronounced /koʊlˈrɑːbi/ in English; scientific name Brassica oleracea Gongylodes Group), also called German turnip or turnip cabbage, is a biennial vegetable, a low, stout cultivar of wild cabbage.

What does kohlrabi go well with? ›

Meat: Kohlrabi pairs well with meats such as bacon, chicken, sausage, and pork. Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, mint, rosemary, thyme, and chives complement the nutty, buttery flavour of kohlrabi and add a bright, fresh flavour.

How do you know when kohlrabi is cooked? ›

As the kohlrabi starts to brown a bit (5 minutes or so), add some onions. Season with salt and pepper and cook until kohlrabi is tender, about 20 to 30 minutes depending on heat.

How to prep kohlrabi? ›

How to prepare kohlrabi. Snip off the leaf stems, trim off the base and top, then use a potato peeler or sharp knife to peel it as if it's an apple. Then thinly slice, chunk or cut into wedges.

What does kohlrabi taste like when cooked? ›

What Does Kohlrabi Taste Like? Kohlrabi tastes similar to a broccoli stalk, but a bit more tender and sweet. Don't forget to remove the tough outer peel, then use the bulb either raw or cooked. It can be prepared much like a broccoli stalk, too—if raw, shred it and use it in slaw or thinly slice and use in a salad.

Can you eat raw kohlrabi? ›

Kohlrabi, also called German turnip, is a cruciferous vegetable in the same family as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, mustard greens, collards, and kale. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is a popular ingredient in salad or coleslaw.

What does kohlrabi taste similar to? ›

Kohlrabi is part of the cabbage family—cabbage, broccoli, collards, kale, brussels. The taste and texture are similar to a young broccoli stem or cabbage heart, but generally milder and sweeter.

Is kohlrabi a superfood? ›

Rich in Antioxidants

These antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Incorporating kohlrabi into your diet can contribute to overall health and well-being.

References

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