Turnip Soup
A hearty turnip soup with tender pork, seasoned with salt, pepper, and thickened with cornmeal, perfect for comforting family meals or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put a piece of very lean and boneless fresh pork in a large soup pot and cover with water.
- Salt and pepper to taste and cook until pork is tender enough to shred.
- Remove the pork, shred it, and return it to the broth.
- Add peeled and diced turnip roots and one chopped onion to the pork broth.
- Fill the pot with water until the roots are covered.
- Cook until the turnip roots are very tender.
- Use a potato masher to mash the turnip slightly.
- Sprinkle one or two tablespoons of cornmeal over the soup and stir well to thicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while simmering the pork. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the pork with mushrooms or a hearty vegetable like cauliflower. You can also adjust the thickness by varying the amount of cornmeal; start with one tablespoon and add more to reach your desired consistency. This soup is reminiscent of other comforting pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turnip soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Fried Collard Greens for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of water to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turnip Soup contains roughly 133 calories, with 3g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this turnip soup can be made a day or two ahead of time. The flavors will meld and improve as it sits. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of turnip roots?
If you can't find turnip roots, you can substitute them with other root vegetables like parsnips or rutabaga, which will provide a similar texture and flavor. Sweet potatoes also work well but will add a different sweetness to the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while the soup is simmering. You can also serve it with a dollop of spicy salsa or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).