Turnip Casserole

Vegetarian Turnip Casserole Recipe with Cream of Mushroom

| Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Turnip casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a holiday gathering. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of turnips with creamy mushroom soup, sour cream, and a crunchy stuffing topping.

History

Turnip casserole has been a popular dish in Southern cuisine for many years. Turnips are a versatile root vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, and this casserole is a great way to showcase their unique flavor.

Ingredients

8 medium turnips, peeled and cut into 2" x 0.5" strips
0.5 cup finely chopped celery
2 large carrots, scraped and cut into 2" x 0.5" strips
0.25 cup chopped onion
1 cup English peas
1 (4 oz (113 g)) jar chopped pimento
1 (10.75 oz (305 g)) can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
0.5 tsp dried basil
0.5 cup herb-seasoned stuffing mix
0.25 cup melted margarine

How to prepare

Place the first 4 ingredients in a large pot, cover with water, and cook for 5-8 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Drain well.
Stir in the peas and pimento. Set aside while combining the other ingredients.
Stir the soup, sour cream, and basil together, then add the vegetable mixture.
Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9" square casserole dish.
Combine the stuffing and butter, then spread it over the top of the casserole.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a different taste.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and cut the turnips into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

- Cooking the vegetables until they are just tender will help them maintain their texture in the casserole.

- Mixing the soup, sour cream, and basil together before adding the vegetables will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Serving Suggestions

Turnip casserole can be served as a side dish with roasted chicken or pork. It pairs well with green beans or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the vegetables before baking ensures that they are cooked through and tender.

- Mixing the soup and sour cream together helps to create a creamy sauce for the casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use frozen peas instead of fresh peas.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option.

- Use gluten-free stuffing mix for a gluten-free version of the casserole.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add the stuffing topping right before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the turnip casserole in a decorative casserole dish for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Turnip casserole pairs well with roasted meats, such as chicken, pork, or beef. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of turnip casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of turnip casserole contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of turnip casserole contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of turnip casserole contains approximately 4 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Turnips are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. This casserole also contains carrots, which are high in vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and gluten (stuffing mix). It may also contain soy (margarine).

Summary

Turnip casserole is a nutritious dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Summary

Turnip casserole is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a holiday gathering. With its creamy texture and crunchy topping, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Turnip Casserole. It was a brisk autumn day, and I was browsing through a collection of old cookbooks at a quaint little bookstore in the heart of the countryside. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes fell upon a faded and weathered recipe card tucked between the pages of a well-loved cookbook. The card was titled "Grandma's Famous Turnip Casserole" and it immediately caught my attention.

I had always been a fan of turnips, with their earthy flavor and hearty texture. But I had never thought to make them into a casserole before. Intrigued, I purchased the cookbook and hurried home to test out the recipe.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepped the turnips, I couldn't help but think back to my own grandmother and the delicious meals she used to make for our family. She was a master in the kitchen, always whipping up incredible dishes from scratch and never measuring a single ingredient. I learned so much from her, absorbing her techniques and flavors like a sponge.

As the aroma of the turnip casserole filled my kitchen, I was transported back to those cherished memories of cooking with my grandmother. I could almost hear her laughter and feel her guiding hand as I stirred the creamy mixture and sprinkled breadcrumbs on top.

When the casserole finally emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The flavors were rich and comforting, with a hint of sweetness from the turnips and a savory depth from the cheese and herbs. It was a dish that warmed the soul and brought a smile to my face.

I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my family and friends. They were all amazed at the deliciousness of the turnip casserole and begged me to make it for every gathering and holiday meal. It quickly became a staple on our table, a dish that brought us all together and evoked memories of simpler times.

Over the years, I have made Grandma's Famous Turnip Casserole countless times, each batch as delicious as the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different cheeses and seasonings. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a tribute to my grandmother and her culinary legacy.

I have shared the recipe with anyone who will listen, passing it on to friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become like family. I love seeing the joy on their faces as they take their first bite of the creamy turnip casserole and savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the warmth of my kitchen and the comforting scent of turnip casserole wafting through the air, I feel grateful for the serendipitous discovery of this recipe so many years ago. It has brought me closer to my roots, to my family, and to the joy of sharing a homemade meal with the ones I love.

And so, I will continue to make Grandma's Famous Turnip Casserole for years to come, passing on the tradition and the love that is woven into every bite. It is a dish that nourishes both body and soul, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.