Rutabaga, commonly known as swede, is a root vegetable that has been a staple in many English-speaking households for centuries. It is particularly popular during the holiday season, when it is often served as a side dish for Thanksgiving turkey or ham. However, with the advent of the instant pot, cooking rutabaga has never been easier or more convenient. In this article, we will show you how to prepare rutabaga using the instant pot, as well as some of the best serving suggestions to make it a perfect addition to your meal.
What is Rutabaga?
Rutabaga, also known as swede or neeps, is a short-stemmed root vegetable that resembles a turnip in appearance. It has a yellowish-white skin and a delicate, sweet flavor. Unlike many other root vegetables, rutabaga is not commonly grown in gardens but is often found in stores or markets, where it is typically stored in wax to extend its shelf life.
How to Prepare Rutabaga for the Instant Pot
To prepare rutabaga for the instant pot, start by peeling the rutabaga with a vegetable peeler. If you prefer, you can also cut the rutabaga into smaller pieces to make peeling easier.
Next, rinse the rutabaga under cold running water to remove any extraneous wax or dirt. Once the rutabaga is clean, dry it thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure it is ready for cooking.
Once the rutabaga is dried, place it in a large mixing bowl filled with cold water. This step is optional but helps to prevent the rutabaga from browning and retains its moisture.
Lastly, place a steamer basket or silicone sling into the bottom of the instant pot inner pot. The long handles of the silicone sling make it easier to remove the cooked rutabaga from the pot.
Cooking the Rutabaga
Once the instant pot is preheated according to the manufacturer's instructions, pour the water or vegetable stock into the bottom of the pot and add the drained rutabaga to the steamer basket or sling. Close and lock the lid onto the instant pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
Next, select the manual pressure cooking setting on the control panel of the instant pot and press the minus or plus button to set the cooking time to 4 minutes.
During the cooking process, it's essential to allow the steam to naturally release for 10 minutes after the cooking time expires. This step is crucial to ensure the Rutabaga is cooked perfectly every time.
Finally, once the cooking process is complete, allow any remaining steam to release by twisting the valve to the releasing position. Carefully remove the instant pot lid and lift the silicone sling or steamer basket out of the pot with care.
At this point, the rutabaga should be cooked to perfection, and it can be served immediately or chilled according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed rutabaga
One of the most common ways to serve rutabaga is as a mashed side dish. To make a basic mashed rutabaga, simply combine the cooked rutabaga with milk or cream in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and other desired herbs and spices.
Rutabaga Mash with Roasted Garlic and Bacon
For a richer and more comforting version of mashed rutabaga, try adding roasted garlic and crispy bacon to the mix. Simply peel and roast a head of garlic, slice it into cloves, and cook it in a pan until golden brown. Crisp the bacon in a separate pan and sprinkle it over the mashed rutabaga before serving.
Rutabaga Fries with Air Fryer
If you prefer to cook rutabaga as a side dish rather than mashed, try air frying them for a change of pace. Simply cut the rutabaga into strips, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
##Rutabaga, whether raw or cooked, is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. With the instant pot, cooking rutabaga has never been easier or more convenient. Whether you're a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, the instant pot rutabaga recipe is the perfect addition to any meal. So, gather your ingredients, make sure you have all the necessary kitchen gadgets, and let the instant pot do the rest. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal today!
Recipe Variations
For those looking to vary their rutabaga recipe, here are a few ideas to consider:
- Add grated or shredded carrots to the mashed rutabaga for a colorful and flavor-packed side dish.
- Top the cooked rutabaga with a poached egg and some minced herbs for a hearty and filling meal.
- Use the rutabaga as a topping for a soup or stew for a change of pace.
With these easy and delicious variations, you'll never get tired of making rutabaga, whether you're cooking it for a special occasion or just because. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and savor the taste of perfectly cooked rutabaga with your loved ones.
Don't forget to check out our other instant pot recipes for more ideas on how to use this versatile vegetable in your meals. From side dishes to complete meals, the instant pot makes it easy to enjoy fresh, healthy meals at home.
For the best results, use high-quality ingredients and follow the instructions carefully. If you have any questions or need additional guidance, feel free to ask in the comments section below. Happy cooking!
