Purple parsnips offer a visually striking addition to any garden or culinary endeavor. Closely related to their white counterparts, these vibrant root vegetables boast a distinct deep purple hue. Their popularity stems from both their aesthetic appeal and subtle flavor differences, making them a rewarding choice for home gardeners and culinary enthusiasts.
Understanding Purple Parsnips
Appearance and Flavor
Purple parsnips have deep purple skin, which can sometimes extend into the flesh. Their flavor profile is slightly sweeter and nuttier than traditional parsnips, with earthy undertones that become more pronounced when cooked.
Nutritional Highlights
The purple color of these parsnips indicates the presence of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that contribute to health benefits like anti-inflammatory effects and protection against cellular damage. Parsnips are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, supporting immune and digestive health.
Cultivating Purple Parsnips
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Purple parsnips thrive in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They require deep, loose, well-draining, and stone-free soil for unobstructed taproot development. Heavy clay or compacted soils can lead to misshapen roots, so loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches. Incorporating a 2 to 4-inch layer of well-rotted compost or aged manure improves fertility and drainage.
Planting and Spacing
Parsnip seeds should be direct-sown in early spring once the soil is workable. Fresh seeds are important, as their germination rate decreases significantly after one year. Plant seeds about 0.5 inches deep and 1 inch apart within rows, with rows spaced 18 to 24 inches apart for proper plant development and air circulation. Consistent moisture is essential for germination, which can take two to three weeks or longer.
Watering and Care
Maintaining consistent soil moisture throughout the growing season is important for healthy root development and to prevent root splitting. Parsnips need about 1 inch of water per week, from rainfall or irrigation. Weeding is important, especially when plants are young, as weeds compete for water and nutrients. Floating row covers can deter pests like carrot rust flies, and good air circulation helps prevent diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew. Crop rotation and cleaning up plant debris also aid in disease prevention.
Harvesting
For the sweetest flavor, purple parsnips are best harvested after a few frosts, which converts their starches into sugars. They mature in 100 to 120 days. Roots are ready for harvest when they reach about 2 to 3 inches in diameter at the crown. When harvesting, carefully dig around the roots to avoid breakage, as parsnips can extend deep into the soil. They can also be left in the ground and harvested as needed throughout the winter, provided the ground is not frozen solid.
Cooking with Purple Parsnips
Preparation Tips
Preparing purple parsnips is similar to preparing white parsnips or carrots. Wash them thoroughly under cool water to remove any soil. Peeling is optional, as much of the flavor is just beneath the skin, but some prefer to peel them, especially if the skin is thick or blemished. If peeling, use a vegetable peeler and remove only a thin layer. Parsnips can then be cut into various shapes, such as rounds, sticks, or chunks, depending on the intended use.
Flavor Pairings and Uses
Purple parsnips offer versatility in the kitchen. Roasting is a popular method that caramelizes their sugars, making them a delicious side dish. They can also be mashed, pureed into creamy soups, or added to stews for depth of flavor. Flavor pairings that complement parsnips include herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, as well as spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger. They also pair well with other root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and fruits such as apples and pears.