Rosemary Rutabaga Fries: A Crispy, Nutritious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
When it comes to nourishing comfort food, rosemary rutabaga fries are a game-changer. These crispy, golden fries pack a nutritional punch and are infused with the aromatic charm of fresh rosemary. If you’re looking to elevate your side dish game or try something new, this recipe is a must-try.
What is Rutabaga?
Rutabagas are a root vegetable often overlooked in the produce aisle. Usually rutabaga can be found on the chilled wall by carrots, turnips, and beets. Rutabaga is a cross between a cabbage and a turnip, that has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Rutabaga’s flesh are a creamy yellow color, encased in a thin purple and tan skin. The exterior usually has a wax coating to keep it smooth and shiny, you might notice wax shavings on your cutting board as you peel it (to avoid this scrubbing in hot water can help remove the food safe wax coating). Rutabagas are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutrient-dense addition to any meal. Plus, they have a lower carbohydrate content than potatoes, which can make them a fantastic tool for blood sugar management.
Knife Skills for Cutting Rutabaga
Cutting a rutabaga can be intimidating due to its dense and firm texture. However, with a few tips, you'll slice through it like a pro:
Microwave Trick: Pop the whole rutabaga into the microwave for 30 seconds to soften it slightly. This step makes it easier to handle and reduces the risk of slipping. Every microwave is different and depending on the power level, be careful with microwaving whole veggies.
Stabilize: Slice off the top and bottom ends to create flat surfaces, giving the rutabaga stability on your cutting board.
Peel: Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin. For thicker areas, a paring knife works well.
Cut: Slice the rutabaga into ¼-inch rounds, then cut each round into matchstick-sized fries or “French fry shapes”.
The Magic of Fresh Rosemary
Fresh rosemary is the star of this recipe, lending its piney, earthy aroma to the fries. As the rutabaga roasts, the rosemary releases its fragrant oils, creating a culinary experience that’s both comforting and invigorating. If you prefer another herb or have another herb growing your window or home garden, you can easily swap it! For instance oregano would pair nice, thyme, or even sage!
Achieving Crispy Perfection
The key to crispy rutabaga fries lies in proper roasting techniques:
Coat Evenly: Toss the fries in a neutral oil, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Canola oil helps in achieving a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and has a higher smoke point compared to olive oil.
Spread Out: Arrange the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Crowding the pan traps steam, resulting in soggy fries.
High Heat: Roast the fries at 400- 425°F , depending on your oven. The high temperature encourages caramelization and crispiness.
Flip: Halfway through roasting, turn the fries to ensure even browning. You can also rotate your pan on the rack to ensure even cooking.
The Perfect Side Dish or Snack
These rosemary rutabaga fries are versatile enough to complement any meal or stand alone as a snack. Pair them with a zesty Greek yogurt dip (adds protein), a sweet and tangy ketchup, or even a garlic aioli for added flavor and fanciness (your friends will think you are Ina Garten over there!).
Why Choose Rutabaga Fries?
Switching from traditional fries to rutabaga fries offers a myriad of benefits. They offer a unique flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings. They add variety to nutrients. Plus, the added fiber supports digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
Final Thoughts
Rosemary rutabaga fries are a delightful blend of nutrition, flavor, and texture. They’re easy to prepare, packed with health benefits, and elevate any meal with their aromatic charm. So next time you're craving something crispy and satisfying, give this recipe a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness of rutabaga with a touch of rosemary magic.
Rosemary Rutabaga Fries: A Crispy, Nutritious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 rutabaga
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola, avocado, vegetable)
- 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary (de-stemmed)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (I prefer flake salt)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 415 * F
- Using a sharp, chef's knife - slice off the skin of the rutabaga and discard skin.
- Start breaking down rutabaga into quarters. Slice into thick matchsticks or French fry shapes.
- Place rutabaga matchsticks onto a parchment paper lined sheet pan. Drizzle on oil and sprinkle on rosemary. Toss together using clean hands or tongs - until all rutabaga pieces are evenly coated in oil.
- Place the sheet pan in oven for 30 minutes. Half way through cooking - rotate pan and using tongs or spatula, flip/toss fries to help with even cooking.
- Once rutabaga fries are cooked ( they will look golden on exterior and be tender inside so that a fork is easily inserted), remove from oven. Sprinkle on additional salt if desired (to taste). Pair with dipping sauce of choice or enjoy as is. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories
67Fat
4 gSat. Fat
0 gCarbs
8 gFiber
2 gNet carbs
6 gSugar
4 gProtein
1 gSodium
302 mgCholesterol
0 mgThe nutritional information provided is an estimate calculated using online tools and is for informational purposes only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice.
