Parsnips 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Parsnip: A Complete Guide

What is Parsnips

Parsnips are kind of like carrots but paler and have a sweeter, nuttier taste. They grow underground like other root vegetables and are usually harvested in the fall or winter. What’s cool about parsnips is that they actually get sweeter after a frost, which is kinda rare for veggies. They’ve got this earthy flavor that works great in soups or roasted with some herbs. Plus, they’ve been around for ages—people used to eat them way before potatoes became popular. I personally love how versatile they are, you can mash them, roast them, or even use them in stews.

Other Names of Parsnips

Parsnips might not have a ton of fancy names, but here are a few that people sometimes use:

1. Pastinaca – This is their scientific name, sounds kinda fancy but it’s just Latin for parsnip.
2. White Carrot – Some people call it this because, well, it looks like a pale carrot.
3. Snips – It’s a casual, shortened nickname some folks use. Makes them sound more fun, right?
4. Root Parsley – This name isn’t super common, but you might hear it sometimes, probably ’cause it’s related to parsley.

So while parsnips don’t have a ton of other names, those are a few you might run into. I think “snips” is pretty cute though.

Nutritional Value of Parsnips

Here’s a general overview of the nutritional value of parsnips per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	75 kcal
Water	79.53 g
Protein	1.2 g
Carbohydrates	18 g
Dietary Fiber	4.9 g
Sugars	4.8 g
Fat	0.5 g
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)	17 mg
Vitamin K	29.3 µg
Folate	67 µg
Potassium	375 mg
Magnesium	29 mg
Phosphorus	71 mg
Calcium	36 mg

It’s important to note that these values can vary slightly depending on factors such as growing conditions and preparation methods. Additionally, these values are based on raw parsnips. Cooking methods, such as boiling or roasting, may affect the nutrient content.

Benefits of Parsnips

Parsnips are pretty awesome for your health. Here’s a list of benefits that might surprise you:

1. Packed with fiber – Parsnips are great for keeping your digestion on track. If you ever feel a bit sluggish, these can help keep things moving.
2. Rich in vitamins – They’ve got a good amount of vitamin C and K, which are important for your immune system and bones. So, they help keep you healthy inside and out.
3. Low in calories – If you’re trying to watch what you eat but still want something filling, parsnips are a good choice. They make you feel full without packing in the calories.
4. Good for heart health – They have a decent amount of potassium, which helps with blood pressure and keeping your heart in check.
5. Antioxidants galore – Parsnips have these natural compounds that protect your body from harmful stuff, like free radicals, which can damage cells.

For further info check out here.

Varieties of Parsnips

There are actually a few varieties of parsnips, even though they might all look pretty similar at first. Here’s a list of some of the common types:

1. Hollow Crown – This is one of the oldest varieties, and it’s known for having a sweet flavor and smooth texture. It’s pretty popular with gardeners because it grows well even in tough soil.
2. Gladiator – This one has a nice long, straight shape, and it’s resistant to diseases, so it’s great for growing at home. Plus, it’s got that classic parsnip sweetness.
3. Lancer – A smaller, quicker-growing variety, but still full of that rich flavor. It’s a good one if you’re short on time and want a harvest sooner.
4. Albion – This variety tends to be a bit whiter and has a nice firm texture. It’s good for roasting and holds up well in stews or soups.
5. Tender and True – Just like the name says, it’s known for being really tender. It’s perfect if you want a parsnip that’s a bit softer when cooked.

Each variety has its little differences, but honestly, they all keep that sweet, earthy taste parsnips are known for.

What Does Parsnips Taste Like

Parsnips have this unique taste that’s kinda hard to describe at first. They’re sweet, but not like candy-sweet, more of a natural sweetness, almost like a carrot but a bit deeper. There’s a nutty, earthy flavor that comes through, especially when you roast them, and some people say they have a hint of spice, like a very mild cinnamon or nutmeg thing going on. The cool part is that when they’re hit by frost, they actually get sweeter, so the colder the weather, the tastier they get. I like how they balance between sweet and savory—it’s almost like having two flavors in one bite.

How To Use Parsnips

Trust me, they’re super versatile and can add a sweet, nutty flavor to all sorts of dishes. I remember the first time I brought home parsnips; I was a little unsure what to make. But after experimenting, they became a family favorite! Here are some easy and delicious ways to use parsnips in your cooking.

1. Roasted Parsnips

Roasting parsnips is one of the simplest and yummiest ways to enjoy them. Just peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and your favorite herbs—like rosemary or thyme. Roast at 400°F (about 200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. They get all caramelized and sweet; it’s like candy for grown-ups! My kids love them so much they sometimes fight over the last piece.

2. Parsnip Mash

If you’re a fan of mashed potatoes, you’ve gotta try parsnip mash! Cook peeled parsnips in boiling water until they’re tender (about 15 minutes should do). Then, drain them and mash with a little butter, cream, salt, and pepper. You can even mix in some garlic or cheese for an extra flavor kick. It’s creamy and comforting, and it pairs perfectly with roasted meats. I like to serve it alongside a nice roast chicken for a cozy dinner.

3. Soups and Stews

Parsnips can add a lovely depth of flavor to soups and stews. Just chop them up and throw them in the pot with your other veggies—like carrots and potatoes. They cook down really well and help thicken the broth. A parsnip and carrot soup is a hit at our house! Just blend it all up with some vegetable broth and season to taste. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

4. Parsnip Fries

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to regular fries, give parsnip fries a shot! Cut them into thin sticks, toss them in oil and seasonings, and bake them until crispy. They’re great as a snack or a side dish. My kids love to dip them in ketchup or homemade ranch dressing.

5. In Salads

Parsnips can also be grated and added to salads for a crunchy texture. Just peel and shred them, then toss with greens, nuts, and a nice vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch that everyone will enjoy. I like to add apple slices and walnuts for a sweet and nutty combo. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

6. Parsnip Chips

If you want a fun snack, try making parsnip chips! Slice them thinly, toss with a bit of oil and salt, and bake until crisp. They’re perfect for munching while watching a movie. My kids think they’re so much better than regular potato chips!

Parsnips are super fun to work with and can really spice up your meals. Whether you’re roasting, mashing, or adding them to soups, there’s no wrong way to use them. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients! So, next time you see parsnips at the store, don’t be afraid to grab a bunch and get cooking. Your family will love you for it!

Substitute for Parsnips

If you don’t have parsnips on hand or just want to switch things up, here are some good substitutes you can try:

1. Carrots – Probably the closest substitute are carrots. They’ve got that same sweet and earthy vibe, though they’re a little less nutty than parsnips. You can swap them in most recipes without much fuss.
2. Turnips – The turnips have a similar texture to parsnips but are a bit more peppery and less sweet. Still, they work well in soups, stews, and roasted dishes.
3. Sweet potatoes – The sweet potatoes are much sweeter than parsnips but can give you that same soft texture when roasted or mashed. Plus, they bring a nice pop of color to your dish.
4. Celeriac (celery root) – The celeriac is not as sweet as parsnips, but it has a similar earthy, root veggie flavor. It’s great for mashing or roasting if you’re looking for that hearty feel.
5. Salsify – This one’s a bit more unusual, but it has a flavor somewhat like a cross between parsnips and artichokes. It’s mild and works well in soups or roasted.
6. Butternut squash – This is another sweeter option, but if you’re going for that soft texture and sweet-savory balance, it’s a good choice. The butternut squash might give your dish a different twist, though.

Each of these subs brings its own little twist to the table, but they can definitely stand in for parsnips when needed.

Where to Buy Parsnips

If you’re looking to get your hands on some parsnips, here are a few places where you can find them:

1. Grocery stores – Most big grocery chains carry parsnips, especially in the fall and winter. They’re usually in the produce section near other root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Just check for ones that are firm and not too soft.
2. Farmer’s markets – If you want fresh, locally grown parsnips, farmer’s markets are a great option. You might even find some cool heirloom varieties you won’t see in regular stores.
3. Health food stores – Places like Whole Foods or other natural food stores often have organic parsnips. They might be a bit pricier, but they’re usually really good quality.
4. Online grocery delivery – These days, you can order pretty much anything online, and parsnips are no exception. Services like Instacart or Amazon Fresh will deliver them right to your door.
5. Local farms or CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) – Some local farms have programs where you can get a box of fresh veggies each week, and during the right season, parsnips could be part of that. It’s a fun way to support local farmers and try new veggies.

How To Store Parsnips

Storing parsnips is pretty simple, and if you do it right, they can last a while. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

1. In the fridge (best option) – For the longest shelf life, keep parsnips in the fridge. Start by gently brushing off any dirt, but don’t wash them before storing, as moisture can cause them to spoil faster. Place the parsnips in a plastic bag, and poke a few holes in it for ventilation. This will help control the moisture and stop them from getting soggy. The crisper drawer is ideal because it’s the coolest and most humid part of the fridge, which keeps the parsnips from drying out. Stored this way, they can last up to 3 weeks or sometimes even longer if they’re really fresh.
2. In a root cellar (if you’ve got one) – Root cellars are perfect for storing parsnips over the long term, especially if you’ve got a big harvest. The ideal conditions are between 32-40°F (0-4°C) with about 90-95% humidity. You don’t want them to freeze, but they do best in cold and slightly damp environments. If you store them in a box filled with damp sand, sawdust, or straw, this helps regulate moisture and keeps them from shriveling up. In these conditions, parsnips can stay fresh for several months, making them great for winter storage.
3. In the freezer – Freezing parsnips is a good option if you want to keep them even longer or if you’re about to lose them to spoilage. Here’s how to do it: First, wash and peel the parsnips, then chop them into slices or chunks. Blanch them by boiling for 2-3 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. After they’ve cooled, drain and dry them off before spreading them on a baking sheet to freeze individually (so they don’t clump together). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 12 months and are perfect for using in soups, stews, or roasting straight from frozen.
4. On the countertop (short term) – If you plan on using your parsnips within a day or two, leaving them on the counter isn’t a big deal. However, they can start to dry out and lose their crispness the longer they sit out. For short-term storage, try to keep them in a cool, dark spot like a pantry, and use them quickly to avoid any spoilage.
5. In the pantry (cool, dark, and dry) – If you don’t have space in the fridge and want to store parsnips for a week or so, a cool, dark pantry or cupboard can work, especially in cooler months. Just keep them in a paper bag or a box with good airflow to prevent moisture buildup. While they won’t last as long as in the fridge, this method can help them stay fresh for up to a week.
6. Avoid storing with ethylene-producing fruits – Parsnips are sensitive to ethylene gas, which is emitted by fruits like apples, bananas, and pears. This gas can make parsnips spoil faster, so try to store them separately from these fruits, especially if you’re keeping them in the fridge.

Proper storage keeps parsnips crisp and flavorful, so you can enjoy them for weeks or even months, depending on the method you choose.

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