You might think that the star of your next meal needs to be a tender cut of meat or fresh seafood, but the humble root vegetable has a lot to offer. Today, we're going to elevate the simple turnip, or navet in French, with a delightful recipe for frîtes de navet – turnip fries that will make a fantastic side dish or even a satisfying main course.
Turnips are often overlooked in the western world, but they're a staple in many global cuisines. They're not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a healthy alternative to potatoes. So let's dive into this crispy, tasty, and nutritious recipe that you're going to love.
Preparing the Turnips
Before we start frying, we need to prepare our turnips properly. Choosing the right variety is key. Small, young turnips work best for fries as they have a sweeter flavor and a better texture.
The first step is to scrub them clean – trim off the leaves and root ends, then peel the skin. Once peeled, cut the turnips into fry-shaped pieces. If you want yours to be extra crispy, soak the cut turnips in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After soaking, pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
Choosing the Right Oil
Using the right oil is crucial for crispy fries. We recommend using peanut oil because it has a high smoke point, a neutral flavor, and it's relatively inexpensive. Other options like canola or vegetable oil work too, but they might not give you the same level of crispiness.
Also, make sure your oil is clean. Old or reused oil can add an off-flavor to your fries. If your oil is cloudy or has a strong smell, it's time to replace it.
Seasoning Your Fries
While turnip fries are delicious on their own, a bit of seasoning can take them to the next level. After frying, drain your fries on paper towels and immediately season them with kosher salt. This draws out the moisture and helps them stay crispy. You can also add other spices like black pepper, paprika, or garlic powder.
If you'd like, you can also make a simple garlic aioli dipping sauce to serve alongside your fries. Just mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and salt to taste.
Cooking the Turnip Fries
Now that our turnips are prepared and our oil is heated, it's time to start frying. The key to perfect fries is to cook them in batches and at the right temperature. This ensures that your fries cook evenly and don't stick together.
Start by heating your oil to 325°F (163°C). Working in batches, carefully add the turnips to the oil. They should sizzle gently. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they're soft and slightly golden. Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Crisping Up Your Fries
While your first batch of fries is draining, increase the temperature of your oil to 375°F (190°C). Once the oil is hot, return the fries to the oil – this time, they should bubble and brown quickly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy.
Remove your fries from the oil and let them drain on fresh paper towels. Season immediately with kosher salt and any other desired seasonings.
Serving Your Turnip Fries
Now that your turnip fries are cooked, it's time to serve them up! They're a perfect side dish to accompany a hearty stew, roast, or even as a main dish with a side of greens. For a fun twist, try using them as a base for a loaded fry dish with your favorite toppings.
However you choose to serve them, we're confident that these turnip fries will become a staple in your kitchen. The crispy exterior and tender interior make for a satisfying snack or meal, and they're a great way to incorporate more root vegetables into your diet.
So there you have it – a delicious, nutritious, and deceptively simple recipe for frîtes de navet. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!