Forget everything you think you know about turnips. Hakurei turnips—the small, white, round variety often found in your FreshFix box—are in a league of their own. Crisp, juicy, and delicately sweet, they’re as delicious raw as they are roasted or sautéed.

A Modern Japanese Creation

Hakurei turnips were developed in Japan in the 1950s, when plant breeders set out to create a turnip mild enough to eat raw. Their innovation paid off—these little roots became a sensation for their flavor and versatility. Today, they’re beloved by farmers and chefs alike across the United States, including those in Western New York who value their fast-growing nature and adaptability to cool weather.

Nutritional Highlights

Hakurei turnips are proof that roots can be both nutritious and elegant:

• Rich in vitamin C, supporting immune and skin health.

• Contains potassium, calcium, and fiber, supporting heart and digestive function.

• Low in calories and carbs, making them an excellent option for light, nutrient-rich meals.

• Edible greens offer additional vitamins A and K, as well as folate and iron.

Together, the roots and greens make Hakurei turnips a powerhouse for seasonal eating.

How to Cook (or Not Cook) Hakurei Turnips

Raw, they’re crisp and refreshing—slice thinly for salads, slaws, or veggie platters. Lightly sautéed, roasted, or glazed with maple syrup, they become tender and buttery, highlighting their natural sweetness. The greens can be quickly wilted in olive oil with garlic or tossed into soups for extra nutrients.

Storage Tips

1. Remove greens before storing to prevent moisture loss.

2. Store roots in a breathable bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

3. Keep greens separately, wrapped in a damp towel, and use within 3–5 days.

They’re a spring and fall favorite on farms like Erbe Verde and Groundwork Market Garden, thriving in cool weather and bringing vibrancy to the harvest season.

A True Farm-to-Fork Favorite

Hakurei turnips remind us how exciting local produce can be—simple, sweet, and packed with flavor. They capture the spirit of FreshFix: fresh, local, and full of surprises that make eating seasonally both delicious and inspiring.

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