Turnip and rutabaga are a tasty treat and they are also healthy!
Did you know that turnips and rutabagas are closely related – you couldn't tell by looking at them (or maybe you could) – but did you know that rutabaga is a vegetable plant resulting from the hybridization of turnips and kale?
The nutrients of both are essentially the same. Both are rich in vitamin C and fiber (greens are rich in vitamin A) and they contain a good amount of protein. rutabagas are soft while turnips are hard and more bitter.
Turnips (one cup, cooked)
Vitamins:
- Vitamin C – 26.7 mg
- Vitamin K – 6.7 mcg
- Folate (important during pregnancy) – 21 mcg
- They also contain a few other vitamins in very small amounts.
Minerals:
- Potassium – 407 mg
- Phosphorus – 60 mg
- Magnesium – 21 mg
- Calcium -76 Mg
- Sodium – 37 mg
- Iron – 0.41 mg
- Also contains traces of zinc, manganese and copper.
When can my baby eat turnips?
It is often recommended you wait to feed turnip and/or rutabaga to babies, usually after 8-10 months of age and only in very small amounts. Many adults report that these vegetables give their babies bloating, so if your little angels have tummy trouble you should take that into consideration. In order to avoid possible gastric problems in a baby who is prone to digestive problems, refrain from offering these vegetables.
What is the best way to cook turnip or rutabaga for baby?
Rutabagas and turnips can be steamed, boiled or roasted. Roasting them will not only help preserve more nutrients, but also bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables. It is very important that you clean thoroughly and peel turnips and rutabagas before peeling and dice.
Some turnip recipes:
Turnip – turnip puree for baby
- Wash and peel and dice turnips
- Put them in a saucepan with enough water to cover them, then boil until the turnip becomes soft and tender.
- Crush the turnip with a fork when you have finished cooking or put them in a mill to puree.
- Add water if necessary to achieve a smooth, thin consistency
Apple and turnip salad
- 1 cup grated apple (2 or 3 apples)
- 1 cup grated turnip (rutabaga is softer)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- pepper, basil, nutmeg
Peel and grate your apple and turnip then steam them for 10 minutes or until the apples and turnips become tender enough to be strained through a mill. Once cooled, empty into a large bowl and mix with a little olive oil.
Consult timelines to better understand what your baby needs and what food is generally accepted for their age.