Canada New Favorite Veggie – In 2025, Canadians are falling in love with a unique and underrated vegetable — kohlrabi. Known for its crisp texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, this vegetable is now appearing in kitchens across the country as a nutritious alternative to potatoes and turnips.
What Makes Kohlrabi So Popular in Canada?
Kohlrabi has become a trendsetter in Canadian kitchens thanks to its versatility, taste, and health benefits. It’s part of the cabbage family, but it has a fresh crunch similar to apples and radishes. Home cooks and professional chefs alike are discovering new ways to use it — from salads to soups and even stir-fries. Canadians are appreciating it for its easy preparation, affordable price, and long shelf life, making it an ideal vegetable for busy households.
Health Benefits of Eating Kohlrabi
This superfood is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports digestion, boosts immunity, and promotes healthy skin. Canadians looking for low-calorie and nutrient-dense options have started adding kohlrabi to their daily meals. Here are a few health benefits worth noting:
- Rich in vitamin C for stronger immunity.
- High fiber content aids digestion and weight control.
- Low in calories but full of essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
- Supports heart health and reduces inflammation naturally.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking with Kohlrabi
- Step 1: Choose Fresh Kohlrabi
Pick firm, unblemished bulbs with crisp leaves. The smaller ones tend to be sweeter and more tender, perfect for salads or light dishes.
- Step 2: Peel and Prepare
Remove the thick outer skin using a sharp knife or peeler. Slice the inner flesh into cubes, matchsticks, or thin rounds depending on your recipe.
- Step 3: Cook or Eat Raw
You can enjoy kohlrabi raw in salads or slaws. For warm dishes, try roasting, steaming, or sautéing it lightly with olive oil and herbs.
- Step 4: Add to Everyday Meals
Use kohlrabi instead of potatoes in mash, or toss it into stews for a crisp twist. It blends beautifully with carrots, onions, and greens.
- Step 5: Store Properly
Keep peeled kohlrabi in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to a week, ready for quick meals anytime.
- Step 6: Experiment with Flavors
Try pairing kohlrabi with garlic, lemon, or even light spices. Many Canadians now use it in fusion dishes like kohlrabi fries and curries.
Extra Tips for Cooking with Kohlrabi
- Grate kohlrabi and mix with yogurt for a refreshing side dish.
- Roast with olive oil and paprika for a crunchy snack.
- Add kohlrabi leaves to soups and smoothies — they’re rich in nutrients.
- Mix with carrots and cabbage for a delicious slaw base.
- Always taste before seasoning — it has a naturally sweet flavor.
FAQs
1. What does kohlrabi taste like?
Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a crunch similar to a radish or apple, making it enjoyable raw or cooked.
2. Is kohlrabi easy to grow in Canada?
Yes, it grows well in cool climates like Canada’s and can be planted in early spring or fall for best results.
3. Can I eat kohlrabi leaves?
Absolutely! The leaves are edible and nutritious, often used in stir-fries, soups, or smoothies.
4. Is kohlrabi suitable for a weight-loss diet?
Yes, it’s low in calories and high in fiber, helping you feel full while maintaining healthy digestion and energy levels.
As Canadians continue exploring healthier and more sustainable foods, kohlrabi has proven it’s more than just a passing trend. Its simplicity, taste, and versatility make it a kitchen favorite for everyone — from home cooks to gourmet chefs. So next time you visit your local market, grab a few bulbs and bring this exciting vegetable to your table with confidence and creativity.
