Parsnips are an underutilized root vegetable that offers a sweet, nutty flavor. Their texture is similar to carrots but with a starchier quality when cooked. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook parsnips in 3 different ways.
1. How To Cook Parsnips on Stove (Butter Fried Parsnips Recipe)
Ingredients
- 4 medium parsnips
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Peel the parsnips and cut off the ends. Slice them into thin, even rounds or matchsticks, depending on your preference.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt and coat the bottom of the skillet.
Add the sliced parsnips to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Cook the parsnips for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and tender. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Season the parsnips with salt and pepper to taste. Toss them to evenly distribute the seasoning.
Continue cooking the parsnips for another 2-3 minutes, until they reach your desired level of caramelization and tenderness.
Once the parsnips are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat.
Transfer the butter-fried parsnips to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Serve the butter-fried parsnips as a delicious side dish alongside roasted meats, poultry, or as part of a vegetable medley.
2. How To Cook Parsnips in Oven ( Roasted Recipe)
Ingredients
- 4 medium parsnips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: dried thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel the parsnips and cut them into 1-inch thick chunks. Make sure the chunks are relatively similar in size to ensure even cooking.
Place the parsnip chunks in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them well to coat each piece evenly with the oil.
Season the parsnips with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you prefer. Dried thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder work well with parsnips and add extra flavor.
Transfer the seasoned parsnips to a baking sheet or roasting pan, spreading them out in a single layer.
Place the baking sheet or roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the parsnips for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender. Flip the parsnips halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Check the parsnips for doneness by piercing them with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy.
Once the parsnips are roasted to your desired texture and color, remove them from the oven.
Transfer the roasted parsnips to a serving dish and serve them immediately as a flavorful side dish or accompaniment to roasted meats and poultry.
3. How To Cook Parsnips in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 medium parsnips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
Peel the parsnips and cut parsnips in half lengthwise. If parsnips are on the larger side, cut into quarters.
Next, place the parsnip in a mixing bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil.
In a separate small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the parsnips. Toss them again to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
Once the air fryer is preheated, transfer the coated parsnips into the air fryer basket. Spread them out in a single layer to allow for even airflow and cooking.
Cook the parsnips in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the parsnips halfway through the cooking time. This helps to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
Check the parsnips for doneness. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Once the parsnips are cooked to your desired texture, remove them from the air fryer.
Transfer the air-fried parsnips to a serving dish and serve them immediately as a flavorful and healthy snack or side dish.
Beyond the basic roasted parsnip, try sautéing, or air frying to enjoy their natural sweetness. I hope that after reading this article, you can confidently cook parsnip at home