Steaming Swede: A Healthy, Quick-Cooking Method

Swede, also known as rutabaga, is a root vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, roasting, steaming, and air frying. In this article, we will focus specifically on steaming swede and explore the different techniques and recipes you can use to prepare this delicious and nutritious vegetable. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy side dish or a more elaborate creation, steaming swede is a healthy and flavourful option that retains the vegetable's colour, texture, and nutrients.

How to prepare swede for steaming

Preparing swede for steaming is a simple process. First, use a potato peeler to peel the swede, removing the skin in the same way you would a potato. You can also use a sharp knife to peel the swede, especially if it is a larger specimen. Next, cut off the root end with a knife. Then, place the swede on a chopping board and cut it into your desired size and shape. You can cut it into chunks, slices, cubes, or wedges, depending on your preference.

Once you have cut the swede to your desired size, you can season it with salt, pepper, and thyme, or any other seasonings of your choice. You can also add a knob of butter to enhance the flavour. After seasoning, place the swede in a steamer basket and add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of the basket. Cover the steamer basket with a lid and place it in the microwave. Steam the swede for 5 minutes, then remove the lid and add butter if desired. Return the swede to the microwave and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Check if the swede is fork-tender; if not, cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Your steamed swede is now ready to be served! You can enjoy it as a side dish or use it in various recipes, such as mashing it with butter and herbs or combining it with other vegetables.

How long to steam swede

Yes, you can cook swede in a steamer. Steaming swede is an easy and fast way to cook this root vegetable.

To steam swede, you will first need to prepare the vegetable. Cut off the root, peel the skin, and chop the swede into pieces. Next, place the chopped swede into a steamer basket and season with salt, pepper, and thyme, if desired. Then, simply steam the swede until tender. This should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. It is important to note that smaller swedes are generally sweeter and cook quicker than larger ones, which may develop a bitter flavour and tougher texture. Therefore, larger swedes may require a slightly longer steaming time.

Additionally, you can also steam swede in the microwave, which is an even faster method. To do this, follow the same preparation steps as above and place the seasoned swede into a microwave-safe steamer basket with a tablespoon of water. Microwave for 5 minutes, then add butter and microwave for an additional 5 minutes. Check if the swede is fork-tender, and if not, cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Microwave steaming vs instant pot steaming

Microwave steaming

Microwaving is a quick and easy way to steam swede. It takes just 10 minutes to cook a medium-sized swede in the microwave if it is cut into medium-sized chunks. Simply add a tablespoon of water to the bottom of a steamer basket, season with salt, pepper and thyme, and microwave for 5 minutes. Then add butter and microwave for another 5 minutes.

Microwaving is a good option if you want to speed up the cooking process, as swede is a slow-cooking vegetable. It is also a convenient way to cook other vegetables, such as carrots, without losing their nutritional value.

However, some people dislike cooking food in the microwave because it can sometimes affect the taste and texture of food. For example, vegetables with a higher sugar content might brown or burn at the edges.

Instant pot steaming

Using an instant pot is another quick and easy way to steam swede and other vegetables. It takes less time than cooking in the oven or on a stovetop and requires less "babysitting". You can also choose specific times and settings for different vegetables, ensuring they are cooked properly while retaining their nutritional value.

To steam vegetables in an instant pot, add a cup of liquid to the pot, place the vegetables in a steamer basket inside the pot, seal the lid, and leave them to cook. It is best to use a stainless steel or silicone steamer basket to hold the veggies in place.

Both microwave steaming and instant pot steaming are convenient options for cooking swede and other vegetables. Microwave steaming is faster and can be used to speed up the cooking process for slow-cooking vegetables like swede. Instant pot steaming is also quick and easy, and it helps retain the nutritional value of the vegetables. The best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and the equipment you have available.

Other ways to cook swede

Swede, also known as rutabaga, is a root vegetable with a sweet, nutty flavour and a texture that falls somewhere between a carrot and a turnip. It is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some methods other than steaming:

Boiling

Swede can be boiled and then mashed with butter, milk, garlic or herbs to make a delicious side dish. Alternatively, boil and mash swede with potatoes and carrots to make a super smooth and creamy mash.

Roasting

Roasted swede is a simple and delicious way to cook this vegetable. Cut the swede into chunks and roast in the oven, just as you would potatoes. For extra flavour, coat the swede in oil and seasoning before roasting. You can also make swede chips by slicing the vegetable into thin strips, tossing them in oil, and roasting until golden and crisp.

Gratin

Swede can be used in a gratin, similar to a potato gratin. Layer thinly sliced swede with a cream, garlic, and Parmesan sauce, and bake in the oven for a decadent side dish.

Gnocchi

Swede can be used to make a budget-friendly and restaurant-worthy gnocchi main course. Boil and mash the swede, then mix with pasta flour, egg, and seasonings to form the gnocchi dough.

Fritters

The mild flavour of swede makes it a great base for spiced fritters. Mix spiced swede with a batter and fry to make Indian-style vegetable pakoras.

Soup

Swede is a great addition to soups, especially curried soups. It has a very subtle flavour, so it won't overpower other ingredients, and it holds its shape well during cooking.

Casseroles and Stews

Swede is an excellent ingredient for casseroles and stews, as it is a hardy winter vegetable that benefits from a long, slow cook. It can be added raw to stews and casseroles, where it will absorb the flavours of the dish.

What to look for when buying swede

When buying swede, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get a good-quality vegetable. Firstly, it is important to select a firm, dense, and blemish-free swede. Smaller swedes tend to be sweeter and have a less tough texture, so opt for small to medium-sized ones if possible. Larger swedes can sometimes become bitter and require longer cooking times to soften them. Therefore, it is best to avoid very large swedes unless you are planning to use them in a dish that requires longer cooking, such as a stew or casserole.

It is also a good idea to feel the swede to ensure it is not too hard or soft. A good swede should have a little bit of give when pressed but should not be too squishy. Check the skin for any signs of wrinkling or drying, as this may indicate that the swede is past its prime. Look for swedes with smooth, taut skin. The colour of the swede can vary, but it should generally have a creamy yellow or orange hue. Avoid any swedes with large bruises or discoloured spots, as these may affect the taste and texture.

When buying swede, it is also worth considering how you plan to cook it. If you want to roast or boil the swede, look for larger, thicker swedes that will hold their shape during cooking. For steaming or pureeing, smaller swedes are a good choice as they will be easier to cut into smaller pieces and will cook more quickly. Remember that swede is a very versatile vegetable and can be prepared in a variety of ways, so don't be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods and recipes.

Frequently asked questions