Expiration & Storage Tips
When does kohlrabi expire?
Kohlrabi usually lasts up to 7-14 days in the fridge if it is stored properly. Remember, always wash it before eating but not before storing to keep it fresh longer. If stored in the freezer, it can last for up to 8-12 months. It's important to note that for the best quality, you should consume the vegetable within the stated time periods, although it is still safe to eat after the mentioned periods.
How do you tell if kohlrabi is bad?
You can tell if kohlrabi has gone bad by checking its texture and color. If the outer skin or the leaves have turned yellow or brown, it might be starting to spoil. Bad kohlrabi may also have soft spots or areas of discoloration, and the texture can turn slimy or mushy when squeezed. The smell can also be a telltale sign, if it starts to smell sour or off-putting, it's best to toss it out.
Tips for storing kohlrabi to extend shelf life
• Store kohlrabi in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge to maintain its freshness.• Do not wash kohlrabi until you're ready to use it. Excess moisture can speed up the spoiling process.• If you're planning to keep kohlrabi for a longer period of time, consider freezing it. To do this, cut it into desired pieces, blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes, cool immediately in ice water, drain to get rid of the excess water and then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.• When defrosting, it's best to do so in the fridge to ensure a slow and even thawing process. Note that thawed kohlrabi is best used in cooked dishes as the texture might change slightly after freezing.
FAQs
While the kohlrabi bulbs are what you'll usually see being sold, don't pass up an opportunity to pick them up if you see the greens still attached — they're delicious and can be eaten raw in salad if they're young and tender, or sautéed or steamed like mustard greens.
Is it better to eat kohlrabi raw or cooked? ›
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.
Is kohlrabi a laxative? ›
Kohlrabi is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. The former is water-soluble and helps maintain healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels. On the other hand, insoluble fiber isn't broken down in your intestine, helping add bulk to your stool and promote regular bowel movements ( 19 ).
What is the closest vegetable to kohlrabi? ›
Broccoli stems are my favorite substitute when I can't find kohlrabi at the farmers market. Both broccoli and kohlrabi are in the brassica family (cabbage family), and have a similar flavor and texture. Plus, you get broccoli stems for free when you buy a full broccoli crown, so using it is a total win-win.
What does a kohlrabi taste like? ›
Kohlrabi tastes like a peppery version of the insides of a broccoli stem. It has the sweetness of the broccoli with a bit of the peppery spice of turnips or radishes. If you want to emphasize its sweetness, try adding a pinch of sugar when you're cooking kohlrabi.
Is kohlrabi good for your gut? ›
Both the water and fiber abundant in kohlrabi help this veggie are good for your gut and digestive health as well. It contains both soluble and insoluble fiber, which promotes overall digestive regularity while combating common gastrointestinal (GI) complaints like gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation.
Why does kohlrabi hurt my stomach? ›
Both soluble and insoluble fibre types that don't dissolve in water are abundant in kohlrabi. From what I know, as insoluble fibre can't be broken down by your digestive system, it may help food to move to your stomach and intestines more quickly. It may add to the bulk of your faeces.
Is kohlrabi better for you than potatoes? ›
For starters, it's crazy-low in carbs and calories. A cup of cubed or sliced kohlrabi has just 36 calories and 8 grams of carbs - about one-third of the carbs and calories found in potatoes.
Does kohlrabi make you gassy? ›
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 do Americans call kohlrabi? ›
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.
Examples of Plants That Should Not Be Grown Together
| Asparagus | Fennel, Garlic, Onions, Potatoes |
|---|
| Kohlrabi | Tomatoes, Peppers, Pole Beans |
| Larkspur | Beets |
| Onions | Asparagus, Beans, Dill, Peas, Sage |
| Peas | Chives, Garlic, Onions, Potatoes, Pumpkin |
21 more rowsKohlrabi also has the nickname Sputnik, since the vegetable looks like the early Russian space satellite!
