What Does Parsnip Taste Like? What Do They Pair Well With?

In this short article, we’re going to answer some of your most common questions on parsnip – including the ever so popular one: What Does Parsnip Taste Like?

Let’s get to the parsnip…

What Does Parsnip Taste Like?

The easiest way to describe what a parsnip tastes like is a cross between a potato and a very mild carrot. Parsnips can be described as earthy, but also bright-tasting at the same time. They’re slightly sweet and also have hints of herb since they’re related to parsley.

Check out the video above for an extremely detailed description from an adventurous kid! 

Texture of Parsnips

The texture of a parsnip will greatly depend on how you cook it…

• Roasted Parsnip:The texture of a roasted parsnip is similar to a roasted white potato, but more starchy.The outside of can get kind of crunchy, but it usually has a softer texture than a roasted potato.
• Boiled Parsnip:Boiled parsnips have a creamy texture.Some of the starch will get boiled out in the water, so it’s a big lighter and less dense than a roasted parsnip.

Love Potatoes? Check Out These Top Sweet Potato Fry Cutters & Slicers…

Does Parsnip Taste Like a Turnip?

While they have similar texture, a parsnip doesn’t taste like a turnip.Parsnips have a sweet flavor profile while turnips tend to be slightly bitter.For context, a turnip tastes similar to a radish.

Related Article: What Does Paprika Taste Like?

What Pairs Well with Parsnips?

• Soups:Parsnips are great additions to any kind of soup.They add a pleasant texture when boiled whole in a soup or can be pureed to get a butternut squash soup texture. 
• Salads:As we mentioned, thin and raw parsnip pairs well with fresh veggies in a salad.
• Mashed Potatoes:You can pair mashed parsnips and mashed potatoes to for a creamier texture and slightly sweet and herb-like flavor profile.
• Savory Herbs & Spices:Roasting parsnips with herbs is a great way to compliment it’s flavor profile.With a little bit of olive oil, salt and herbs of choice, you’ll end of with delicious veggie chips.
• Sweet Spices: Spices like clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg are perfect.

Read Also: What Does Peanut Butter Taste Like?

Here are a few videos to illustrate greater detail…

In the video above, it shows how easy it is to puree parsnip into a creamy soup.throw somechivesor scallions on there and you’re good to go!

As mentioned, roasting parsnips paired with herbs is a great way to serve them.This video is the best demonstration we could find to do it in a way that best brings out their flavor and texture.

Recommended Article: What Does Persimmon Taste Like?

If you were waiting for the way best way to make sweet parsnips – well here it is! These maple roasted carrots and parsnips are a great thing to serve on holidays. People will forget that they’re eating vegetables!

Can You Eat Raw Parsnip?

Most of the time, parsnips are eaten cooked, but sometimes parsnip can be eaten raw in a salad. Thinly shaving down the parsnip or finely grating is ideal if you’re going to eat it raw.

This raw parsnip salad gives you a good idea of how to prepare it…

Do note that the chutes and leaves of a parsnipare considered toxic. So if you’re getting them whole (most of the time only the root is sold), that’s something to be mindful of.

Further Reading: What Does Pineapple Taste Like?

Wrap Up

By now you’ve probably noticed that there’s tons of different ways to enjoy parsnip.

Whether you’re going to boil it, roast it, saute or puree into a soup it’s a delicious and often underestimated root vegetable.

Did you know that you can even use avegetable noodle maker – like one of these– to make veggie noodles with it?

Use them as a healthier whole food replacement to regular pasta.

Related Article: What Does Plum Sauce Taste Like?

Joey Bruno

Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!