Larger than the turnip and with a rough skin that is partly tan and partly purple, the swede's unpolished appearance belies its fine texture and distinctive, sweet tasting flesh.
When roast or mashed, swede makes a simple and tasty side dish. It can also be used to add interest to stews or in a variety of twists on mashed potato.
HISTORY
The swede is thought to have originated in central Europe and has a relatively short culinary history compared with many vegetables. It was known in France and England in the seventeenth century and became an important European crop by the eighteenth century. During the nineteenth century it reached the USA (where it is known as rutabaga) and then Canada.
To this day it is a much more popular food in North and East Europe than any other region.
BIOLOGY
A member of the Cruciferae family, Brassica napus is a hardy plant that is frost-tolerant and thrives in moist soil.
NUTRITION
Swede has a good mineral content including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and manganese. It is low in saturated fat and relatively high in sugars. It also provides some fibre and vitamins A and C.
TIPS
BUYING
Choose swede that is firm, solid and heavy for its size. The skin should be free of major damage but the rigid scars around the top are natural. Smaller examples are generally sweeter and milder.
STORING
Swede will keep well in the fridge for a couple of weeks or more.
PREPARING
Peel before use. As the skin is quite thick and uneven you may find it easier to quarter the swede and cut off the skin with a knife, rather than using a peeler.
Roasting will concentrate the swede's flavour, whereas boiling will dilute it. Cut swede into chunks or cubes, according to preference, and cook until tender. Baking at 200°C will take around 30 to 45 minutes, boiling will take 10 to 20 minutes.
Swede can also be used raw; try it finely grated in a salad.
OTHER STUFF
In Scotland swede is known as neeps and is served mashed alongside haggis as part of the traditional supper on Burns Night.
