Crispy Roasted Turnip 'Fries'
A healthier alternative to traditional potato fries, these Crispy Roasted Turnip 'Fries' offer a delightful crunch and savory-sweet flavor. Perfect as a guilt-free snack or a wholesome side dish, they're easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
For 4 servings
Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Prepare Turnips: Wash the turnips thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel the outer skin. Trim off the top and bottom ends. Cut each turnip in half, then slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Stack the rounds and cut them into uniform 1/4-inch thick sticks, resembling traditional french fries. Aim for consistent size for even cooking.
Season Turnips: In a large bowl, combine the cut turnip sticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss well with your hands or a spatula until all the turnip pieces are evenly coated.
Arrange for Roasting: Spread the seasoned turnip sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded; use two baking sheets if necessary to allow for proper air circulation, which is crucial for crispiness.
Roast: Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping the turnip fries halfway through (around the 10-12 minute mark). Continue roasting until they are tender on the inside, golden brown, and crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Serve Immediately: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd: For truly crispy fries, ensure the turnips are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam them instead of roasting, resulting in soggy fries.
- 2Consistent Cut: Cut the turnip sticks into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly. Thicker pieces will take longer, while thinner ones might burn.
- 3High Heat is Key: Roasting at 200°C (400°F) is essential for achieving that desirable crispy exterior and tender interior.
- 4Pat Dry: For extra crispiness, pat the cut turnip sticks dry with a paper towel before tossing them with oil and seasonings. This removes excess moisture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a fiery twist.
Herbaceous DelightHerbaceous Delight
Incorporate dried rosemary or thyme along with the other spices for an aromatic flavor profile.
Air Fryer MethodAir Fryer Method
For an even crispier result with less oil, cook in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Turnips are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion.
Low in Calories & Carbs
A fantastic alternative to potato fries, offering significantly fewer calories and carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets.
Antioxidant Properties
Turnips contain glucosinolates, which are plant compounds with antioxidant effects that may help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Frequently asked questions
It's not recommended. Frozen turnips tend to release a lot of water when cooked, making it difficult to achieve a crispy texture. Fresh turnips are best for this recipe.
