Can You Eat Kohlrabi Raw?

Kohlrabi belongs to the cabbage family (Brassica oleracea) and is considered a cool-weather crop. It is closely related to broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, and swede.

Kohlrabi comes from the German words for cabbage (Kohl) and turnip (rube or rabi). It is a biennial plant producing foliage the first year and flowers and fruits the following season.

It is typically harvested for its swollen stem and leaves, which have a mild, sweet flavor and crunchy texture.

European botanists described kohlrabi for the first time in 1554. The eastern Mediterranean, Tripoli, Germany, Italy, and Spain were all familiar with it by the 1600s.

Some sources claim that commercial crop cultivation began in Ireland in 1734 and in England in 1837.

The plant quickly spread to other parts of the world, and today it is grown commercially in India, China, Russia, and some parts of North America.

Kohlrabi is often referred to as a turnip-rooted cabbage due to its edible stem and bulbous shape.

The bulb is usually harvested when it is two to three inches in diameter, but it can grow up to five inches.

The edible portion of kohlrabi is the swollen stem, which appears in one of two shapes: an apple-like bulb or a turnip-like bulb.

It has a mild, cabbage-like flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.

Can You Eat Kohlrabi Leaves and Stems Raw?

You can eat kohlrabi leaves and stems raw. Kohlrabi may be used in a variety of ways.

In addition to its delightfully crunchy bulbs, the plant produces enormous edible stems and leaves that may be harvested and eaten the same way as kale or other leafy green vegetables.

Although the bulbous bottom of the kohlrabi is the most commonly consumed part, the entire vegetable is edible. The leaves and stalks are delicious when sautéed or added to salads.

You can remove the skin with a knife or peeler before serving raw if it is too tough and rubbery.

When eaten raw, the leaves and stems of kohlrabi have a refreshing taste and a crunchy texture. They can be added to salads or smoothies to make them healthier.

Kohlrabi has the best flavor when it is picked when it is still young. Kohlrabi, which has matured into a large size, is usually tough, bitter, and astringent.

On the other hand, a young kohlrabi’s crisp, juicy texture is reminiscent of an apple when eaten raw. Kohlrabi has a unique texture and flavor.

Some people compare that to a cross between jicama and broccoli. This unique combination makes it perfect for various dishes, from salads to sandwiches.

Benefits of Eating Kohlrabi Raw

Eating kohlrabi raw is a great way to enjoy the vegetable’s sweet and juicy taste while benefiting from its nutritional properties.

Raw kohlrabi provides vitamins A, C, and K and calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium. It is also rich in dietary fiber, making it an ideal choice for those looking to improve their digestive health.

Raw kohlrabi is low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for those trying to manage their weight.

Some health benefits of eating kohlrabi raw are given below:

Antioxidant Properties

Kohlrabi has many antioxidants that can help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, protecting it from damage caused by free radicals.

It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, folate, potassium, magnesium, and dietary fiber.

These nutrients are essential for overall health and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Digestive Health

The fiber in kohlrabi helps promote digestive health by regulating food movement through the digestive system.

Fiber helps increase the bulk of stools, which can help prevent constipation and other digestive issues.

Additionally, kohlrabi is a good source of prebiotic fiber, which helps feed beneficial bacteria in the gut and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Skeletal Health

Eating kohlrabi can also help strengthen your bones, as it is a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin K.

The combination of these nutrients helps increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Additionally, consuming kohlrabi may reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases associated with poor bone health, such as arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

Kohlrabi also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

This is because kohlrabi contains several nutrients that can help reduce inflammation, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, magnesium, and other anti-inflammatory compounds.

The anti-inflammatory properties of kohlrabi can help reduce the risk of developing chronic inflammation-related diseases, such as arthritis, heart disease, and some cancers.

Side Effects of Eating Kohlrabi Raw

Eating raw kohlrabi can lead to side effects, such as bloating, indigestion, and gas. These side effects can be caused by the high fiber content in kohlrabi, which can be difficult to digest.

Additionally, kohlrabi contains oxalates, which can cause an increase in kidney stones and other kidney problems when consumed in large amounts.

Kohlrabi leaves may contain higher levels of oxalates than the bulb and should be consumed in moderation.

Kohlrabi is also rich in vitamin K, which can interfere with certain blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin.

For these reasons, it is best to speak with a doctor or dietitian before making kohlrabi a regular part of your diet.

Conclusion

Kohlrabi is a member of the cabbage family and a nutrient-dense vegetable with a wide range of health benefits.

It originated in the Eastern Mediterranean and has since spread around the world.

The edible parts of kohlrabi are its bulb, leaves, and stem. It can be eaten raw, cooked, or pickled. The bulb is the most commonly consumed part and is said to have a mild, cabbage-like taste.

The texture of kohlrabi is crisp and juicy, and it is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

Eating kohlrabi can provide many health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting the immune system, and strengthening bones.

Consuming large amounts of kohlrabi can lead to digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and indigestion.

While kohlrabi has many health benefits, it is important to be aware of the possible side effects that may occur.