Vegetable, Root | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Paleo

Parsnip

Pastinaca sativa Allergen-Free
Parsnip

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Apiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European, American
  • Seasonality Autumn, Winter
  • Source Parsnip plant root

The Forktionary Angle

"The Sweet Root"

Definition

A root vegetable closely related to carrots, known for its creamy white skin, sweet, earthy flavor, and starchy texture when cooked.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Earthy, Nutty, Anise-like
TextureStarchy, Firm (raw), Creamy (cooked)
AromaEarthy, Slightly Pungent, Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Optimal Storage (Refrigerated)

2-4 weeks in a plastic bag

Peak Season

Fall through early spring

Sugars Increase After Frost

Starch converts to sugar

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium parsnip (150g)
Calories75 kcal
Total Fat0.3g
Saturated Fat0.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.2g
Total Carbohydrate18g
Dietary Fiber4.9g
Total Sugars9.7g
Calcium36mg
Iron0.6mg
Potassium375mg

Chef’s Secret

Roast parsnips with a drizzle of maple syrup or honey to caramelize their natural sugars, intensifying their sweetness and creating a beautiful glazed finish.

Substitutions

Best Match

Carrot

1:1

Similar texture and sweetness, but lacks the distinct earthy, nutty flavor of parsnip.

Celeriac (Celery Root)

1:1

Earthy flavor and starchy texture, but with a distinct celery note.

Potato (Russet)

1:1

Good for starchy texture, especially in purees, but very neutral flavor.

Sweet Potato

1:1

Offers sweetness and similar starchy texture, good for roasting.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, smooth parsnips without blemishes or soft spots. Smaller parsnips are often sweeter and more tender.

Flavor Pairings

Rosemary thyme sage butter cream bacon apples maple syrup roast meats.

Recipes Using Parsnip

European Time To Make Holiday Event Easy

Tis An Irish Lamb Stew

Indulge in this hearty and flavorful Irish Lamb Stew, a delicious twist on a classic recipe! Made with a rich homemade lamb broth (using lamb bones – don't forget to grab some!), tender lamb, and Mom's insistence of fresh cabbage, this stew is a comforting masterpiece. Pair it with our homemade Irish Soda Bread (recipe available!) for an authentic Irish feast. (Optional: add a touch of whiskey for an extra kick!)

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Lactose Chicken Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

30 Minute Chicken Noodle Soup From Foodtv Rachael Ray

This lightning-fast chicken noodle soup recipe from Rachael Ray's Food Network show (originally aired 5/16/02) is a comforting classic ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers a flavorful and hearty broth with tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles. A quick and easy recipe for busy cooks.

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Egg Free Occasion Holiday Event Time To Make

A Vegetarian Finnish Mashed Potato Casserole

Experience a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes with this hearty Finnish-inspired casserole! Creamy mashed potatoes, infused with earthy rutabagas and parsnips, are topped with sweet caramelized onions for a truly unforgettable flavor combination. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Find the full recipe and more delicious potato creations at PotatoPatchRecipes.com.

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Easy Beginner Cook Vegetarian Vegetables

Adders Fork Glazed Carrots Parsnips Zwt Three

A delightful British-inspired recipe! These glazed carrots and parsnips are incredibly easy to make – just two simple steps from stovetop to oven. Sweet, tangy, and perfectly tender, this side dish is perfect for any occasion. Easily substitute turnips for parsnips. Get ready to impress!

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Cuisine Taste Mood Vegetarian Healthy 2

Aromatic Parsnips And Carrots

Experience a flavor explosion with this irresistible recipe for Aromatic Parsnips & Carrots! Sweet parsnips and carrots are perfectly complemented by zesty lemon, fragrant fennel, warm cinnamon, and a hint of garlic. Adapted from Better Homes & Gardens, this easy 30-minute recipe is a must-try for a delicious and healthy side dish or light meal. #parsnips #carrots #lemon #cinnamon #fennel #side dish #easyrecipe #healthyrecipe #betterhomesandgardens

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Fall Preparation Main Dish Course

Autumn Chicken With Harvest Vegetables

Cozy up to the delicious flavors of fall with this Autumn Chicken with Harvest Vegetables recipe! Imagine: crisp autumn air, vibrant leaves crunching underfoot, and the irresistible aroma of roasted chicken and fresh-from-the-garden vegetables filling your kitchen. This winning (2008 Craze-e Crockpot Cooking Contest!) recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and delivers a heartwarming meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. Tender chicken, seasonal vegetables, and fragrant thyme combine for a dish that will nourish your soul and leave you feeling wonderfully satisfied. Get ready for a taste of autumn you won't forget!

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Taste Mood Time To Make Snacks Comfort Food

Baked Veggie Chips

Crispy, colorful, and healthy! These baked veggie chips are a delicious and fun snack or side dish, perfect for kids and adults alike. Using seasonal white and sweet potatoes, beets, parsnips, and carrots, this recipe transforms simple vegetables into irresistible crunchy delights. Thinly sliced and seasoned to perfection, these chips are a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies. Inspired by Nick Jr. Family Magazine.

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Yams Sweet Potatoes Kosher Easy Potatoes

Balsamic Honey Roasted Root Vegetables

Impress your taste buds with this easy, budget-friendly Balsamic Honey Roasted Root Vegetable recipe! Perfect for cozy fall and winter evenings, this dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. Roast until tender and caramelized, then enjoy it hot or cold – delicious on its own, or tossed with spring greens and a vibrant balsamic or goddess dressing. Easily customizable with your favorite root vegetables like celery root, baking potatoes, or red beets. A stress-free recipe even beginners can master!

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Main Ingredient Vegetables Main Ingredient Meat

Barefoot Contessa's Homemade Chicken Stock

Ina Garten's classic chicken stock recipe from her beloved 'Barefoot Contessa Family Style' cookbook (2002). This recipe yields a deeply flavorful, rich stock perfect for soups, sauces, and more! Learn how to make restaurant-quality chicken stock from scratch with this easy-to-follow guide. #chickensoup #homemade #stock #inagarten #barefootcontessa #recipe

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One Dish Meal Beef 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient

Beef Stew Cobbler

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Beef Stew Cobbler! This hearty, one-dish wonder features a rich and flavorful beef stew topped with a flaky, savory biscuit crust. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make, despite its impressive presentation. Even if you're missing a parsnip, substitutions are easy – use a potato, turnip, or extra carrot.

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Vegetarian For 1 Or 2 Beverages Preparation

Let's Go Green Fruit And Vegetable Juice

Boost your health with this vibrant green juice, perfect for your high-speed blender! This recipe, originally from a 2008 clean-eating guide, combines celery (for stronger bones, joints, skin, hair, and nails) and broccoli (renowned for its anti-cancer properties and potential to combat H. pylori bacteria) for a delicious and nutritious drink. Get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals in just minutes!

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Occasion Time To Make Equipment Stove Top

Parsnips With Almonds

Sweet and spicy roasted parsnips tossed with crunchy almonds and a zesty lemon glaze. This 17-minute recipe is a delicious and easy side dish perfect for any meal!

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Equipment Soups Stews Preparation Crock Pot Slow Cooker

Tasty Chicken Fennel Soup In A Crock Pot

Warm up your autumn evenings with this hearty and flavorful Crock-Pot Chicken Fennel Soup! This thick, stew-like soup is bursting with the tastes of fall – fennel, carrots, apples, and tender chicken simmered to perfection. Easily customizable to your liking, it's the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. Perfect for meal prepping and a crowd-pleaser for family and friends.

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