Creamy Turnip & Cauliflower Mash
A wonderfully creamy and comforting mash made from turnips and cauliflower, offering a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional potato mash. It's packed with flavor and a fraction of the calories, perfect as a wholesome side dish.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables: Peel and dice the turnips into roughly 1-inch pieces. Core the cauliflower and chop it into similar-sized florets. Mince the garlic cloves.
Boil the vegetables: Place the diced turnips and cauliflower in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Add 1 tsp of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-high and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until both vegetables are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Drain and steam dry: Carefully drain the cooked vegetables thoroughly in a colander. Return them to the hot, empty pot over low heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This crucial step allows any excess moisture to evaporate, preventing a watery mash.
Sauté aromatics: While the vegetables are drying, melt the unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown. Remove from heat.
Mash the vegetables: Add the sautéed garlic and butter, plain Greek yogurt, freshly grated nutmeg, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper to the pot with the dried vegetables. Using a potato masher, immersion blender, or a food processor, mash until your desired consistency is achieved. For a smoother mash, use a food processor, but be careful not to over-process as it can become gummy.
Season and serve: Taste the mash and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer an even creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of warm milk or cream. Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley, and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't skip the steam-drying step: This is critical for preventing a watery mash. Excess moisture will dilute the flavor and make the texture less appealing.
- 2Use full-fat Greek yogurt: The higher fat content contributes significantly to the creamy texture and rich mouthfeel of the mash.
- 3Freshly grate nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg has a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
- 4Adjust consistency: For a thinner mash, add a tablespoon or two of warm milk or vegetable broth until desired consistency is reached. For a thicker mash, ensure thorough drying of vegetables.
Adapt it for your goals.
Cheesy Mash
Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, sharp cheddar, or Gruyère cheese while mashing for a richer, more savory flavor profile.
Herby MashHerby Mash
Incorporate other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage along with the chives for an aromatic twist. Add them finely chopped during the mashing step.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during mashing for a subtle spicy warmth. Alternatively, roast the garlic before adding it for a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Carb Alternative
This mash significantly reduces carbohydrate intake compared to traditional potato mash, making it ideal for ketogenic or low-carb diets.
Rich in Vitamins & Fiber
Cauliflower and turnips are excellent sources of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and dietary fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
Bone Health Support
Turnips contain calcium and Vitamin K, both crucial nutrients for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare the mash up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
