Creative Ways to Use Kohlrabi: How to Cook Kohlrabi for Delicious Family Meals

If you’ve recently received kohlrabi in your veggie box and wondered how to cook kohlrabi in tasty, easy ways, you’re in the right place! This crisp and mildly sweet vegetable is a wonderful seasonal treat, and with just a little prep, it can become a star ingredient in your family’s meals.

At Arrows Farm, we love sharing simple tips and recipes so you can enjoy fresh, farm-grown veggies like kohlrabi with confidence and creativity.

What is Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi (pronounced KOHL-rah-bee) is a member of the cabbage family and looks like a round bulb with leafy stems. Its flavor is a delightful mix between broccoli stem and a mild radish—fresh, slightly sweet, and crunchy.

Both the bulb and the greens are edible, making it a versatile vegetable to use in your kitchen.

How to Prep Kohlrabi

Before you cook kohlrabi, here’s how to prep it:

1. Wash and peel: The outer skin of the kohlrabi bulb is tough and fibrous, so use a vegetable peeler or sharp knife to remove it.

2. Cut into shapes: Depending on your recipe, slice the peeled bulb into sticks, cubes, or thin rounds.

3. Use the leaves: Don’t throw away the leafy greens! They can be cooked just like kale or Swiss chard, adding even more nutrition and flavor to your meals.

How to Cook Kohlrabi: Easy Methods and Ideas

1. Roasting Kohlrabi

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and softens kohlrabi’s crunch, making it a delicious side dish.

• Cut kohlrabi into cubes or sticks

• Toss with olive oil, fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, salt, and pepper

• Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through until tender and golden

2. Kohlrabi Slaw

For a fresh and crunchy way to enjoy kohlrabi raw, shred or grate the peeled bulb and toss it with shredded carrots, sliced apples, and a simple lemon vinaigrette. This slaw is perfect as a side dish or topping for sandwiches and tacos.

3. Kohlrabi Fries

Cut kohlrabi into fry-shaped sticks, toss with olive oil and your favorite spices (like paprika or garlic powder), then bake until crisp. Serve with a yogurt or herb dip for a snack or side.

4. Stir-Fried Kohlrabi Greens

Sauté the tender kohlrabi leaves with garlic and a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice for a quick and nutritious side dish.

5. Kohlrabi Soup

Dice kohlrabi and simmer with potatoes, onions, and vegetable broth until soft. Blend until smooth for a creamy, comforting soup that’s perfect warm or chilled.

Roasted Kohlrabi and Carrots with Thyme

Ingredients:

• 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and cubed

• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss kohlrabi and carrots with olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.

4. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and tender.

5. Serve warm as a tasty side dish or add to grain bowls for a wholesome meal.

Tips for Cooking Kohlrabi

• Kohlrabi cooks quickly—avoid overcooking to keep its lovely texture.

• Pair it with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to enhance the flavor.

• Experiment by substituting kohlrabi in recipes that call for cabbage, turnips, or broccoli stems.

Tips for Growing Kohlrabi at Home

Interested in growing your own kohlrabi? Here are some easy tips to get started:

• Planting time: Kohlrabi prefers cooler weather and grows best in spring or fall.

• Soil: Choose well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Kohlrabi likes consistent moisture.

• Spacing: Space plants about 6-8 inches apart to allow bulbs room to grow.

• Sunlight: Kohlrabi needs full sun, at least 6 hours a day.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—mulch helps retain moisture and reduce weeds.

• Harvest: Harvest kohlrabi bulbs when they’re 2-3 inches in diameter for the best flavor and texture. The bulbs get woody if left too long.

• Use the greens: Don’t forget to harvest and cook the leafy greens—they’re nutritious and delicious!

Growing kohlrabi is a fun way to connect with your food and enjoy fresh veggies right from your garden or container.

We hope this guide helps you feel confident about how to cook kohlrabi and inspires you to enjoy this fresh, seasonal veggie in new ways — from your garden to your table! Share your kohlrabi stories and recipes with us; we love hearing how you enjoy your farm-fresh produce.

Thank you for supporting Arrows Farm and embracing seasonal, local eating with us!