Swede Wonderful Swede - also known as 'Rutabaga' or 'Neeps'
In our house the humble swede is so often part of our menu plans. Our children love it and the grandchildren like its slightly sweet taste. It is known under various names, depending on where in this world you live - so I thought why not give a little more detail for those of you who have not tried this wonderful vegetable.
Americans know it as "rutabaga". The Scottish call it "neeps" and serve it with haggis. The swede, a fairly recent root vegetable, is thought to have originated around the 17th century in Bohemia. In 1620 a Swiss botanist described the root vegetable, believed to be a hybrid of the cabbage and the turnip. By 1664 it was growing in England. A good source of vit.C, fibre, folate and potassium. Low in calories.Wash then peel thoroughly to remove the thick outer skin. Swede can be prepared and served in any of the methods used for potatoes. Swede can be added to soups, stews and casseroles. Use mashed swede instead of mashed potato it has a slightly sweet taste. Swede can also be made into fritters and pancakes. Collins Gem states 2.3 grams of carb per 100 grams. It doesn't spike blood sugar numbers like a potato may. Swede is just great, try it and see.
Mash up with lots of butter and serve with meat, fish, other vegetables, whatever you like.
It really does taste good.
All the best Jan
2 comments:
I like swede, shame it isn't fashionable like kale. Maybe it needs a revival. It is excellent mashed as a topping for shepherd's pie. When we were kids (in the Fifties) my mum used to give us slices of raw swede to eat as a snack. I don't think that snack would go down well with today's children!
Hello Judith - yes Kale is very popular, and I like it too. But mashed swede on top of shepherd's pie or a fish pie is just brilliant. Can't say I've ever eaten it raw but I don't see why not. For a hand held snack I think I'd rather have a pepper or celery stick!
Many thanks for your comment.
All the best Jan
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