rutabaga
[ ROO-tuh-bay-guh ]
This cabbage-family root vegetable resembles a large (3 to 5 inches in diameter)
TURNIP and, in fact, is thought to be a cross between cabbage and
TURNIP. The name comes from the Swedish rotabagge, which is why this vegetable is also called a Swede or Swedish
TURNIP. Rutabagas have a thin, pale yellow skin and a slightly sweet, firm flesh of the same color. There is also a white variety but it is not generally commercially available. This root vegetable is available year-round with a peak season of July through April. Choose those that are smooth, firm and heavy for their size. Rutabagas can be refrigerated in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks. They may be prepared in any way suitable for
TURNIPs. Rutabagas, which are a
CRUCIFEROUS vegetable, contain small amounts of vitamins A and C.
© Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc. 1995 based on THE FOOD LOVER'S
COMPANION, 2nd edition, by Sharon Tyler Herbst.
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