Looking for a delicious and comforting soup recipe to warm up your fall and winter days? Look no further! Turnips are often overlooked as a main ingredient, but they’re actually incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. When cooked with creamy ingredients like butter, cream, or coconut milk, turnips become a rich and indulgent treat. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes that showcase the best of turnip-based soups. From classic combinations to more adventurous twists, there’s something for everyone in our collection. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal to fuel your daily routine or a special occasion dish to impress your guests, these creamy turnips soup recipes are sure to please.
Classic Creamy Turnip Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an excellent addition to any meal or occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich and creamy turnip soup that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped turnips, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turnips are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, allow the soup to cool and blend in a blender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat over low heat until warmed through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turnip and Carrot Soup
This hearty soup combines the earthy sweetness of turnips with the vibrant crunch of carrots, all infused with a spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a cozy winter’s evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the turnips and carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Turnip Soup
Roasted Garlic and Turnip Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and sweet turnips. Perfect as a cozy dinner or a refreshing lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and cubed
– 3 cloves of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss turnip cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add roasted turnips, garlic cloves (squeezed out of their skins), and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Stir in heavy cream (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Turnip and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this hearty, comforting chowder that showcases the sweet and earthy flavors of turnips and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and diced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced turnips and potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let the chowder cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Coconut Curry Turnip Soup
Coconut Curry Turnip Soup: A Creamy and Nutritious Delight
This recipe combines the sweetness of turnips with the warmth of coconut curry, creating a unique and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped turnips, diced tomatoes, curry powder, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until turnips are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Turnip and Leek Soup
This comforting soup combines the sweet flavors of turnips and leeks with a hint of herbs, making it a perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium leeks, chopped (white and light green parts only)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped turnips and leeks, and cook until they are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turnip and Apple Soup with Cinnamon
This sweet and savory soup is a perfect blend of autumn’s flavors, featuring the earthy sweetness of turnips and apples, warm comfort of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 large turnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped turnip and apple in butter until tender.
2. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender, blending until smooth.
4. Return the soup to the pot, add heavy cream and cinnamon. Heat through, adjusting seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet turnips and comforting lentils, making it a great option for a chilly day. With its rich flavor profile and soft texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the turnips, lentils, broth, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the turnips are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Turnip Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of smoky bacon with the natural sweetness of turnips, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut smoky bacon, diced
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
4. Add the chopped turnips, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turnips are tender.
5. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turnip and Sweet Potato Soup
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of turnips, making for a deliciously comforting winter meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium-sized turnip, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced turnip and sweet potato, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
7. Add heavy cream, if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turnip and Kale Soup with Parmesan
This creamy soup combines the earthy sweetness of turnips and the peppery flavor of kale, finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a chilly winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large turnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped turnip and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add kale, broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until kale is wilted.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip and Mushroom Soup
Turnip and Mushroom Soup Recipe
As the weather cools down, warm up with this hearty and comforting Turnip and Mushroom Soup recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of turnips with the rich flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped turnips, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until turnips are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turnip and Ginger Soup with Turmeric
This vibrant orange soup is a perfect blend of sweet turnips, spicy ginger, and earthy turmeric. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with health benefits.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped turnips and grated ginger; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the turmeric. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turnips are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip and Cauliflower Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, made with the humble turnip and cauliflower. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped turnips and cauliflower to the pot. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add richness to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet turnips and nutty barley, simmered to perfection with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped turnips, barley, vegetable broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the turnips are tender and the barley is cooked.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turnip and Chicken Soup with Thyme
This hearty soup combines the sweet flavor of turnips with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a fragrant thyme broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and diced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and turnips in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the soup, depending on your desired consistency.
4. Stir in heavy cream, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turnip and Tomato Soup with Basil
This hearty soup combines the sweet flavors of turnips and tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and diced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the turnips, tomatoes, garlic, and butter over medium heat until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Turnip and Pumpkin Soup with Nutmeg
Warm Up with a Delicious Turnip and Pumpkin Soup
This creamy soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of turnips, finished with a hint of nutmeg. Perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium turnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), roasted and diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chopped turnips, vegetable broth, and roasted pumpkin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turnips are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
4. Stir in the ground nutmeg and heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these delicious turnip soup recipes! From classic creamy to spicy and smoky, there’s something for everyone. Try making a comforting bowl of Classic Creamy Turnip Soup or add some heat with Spicy Turnip and Carrot Soup. For a twist, combine roasted garlic and turnips in Roasted Garlic and Turnip Soup. Or go international with Coconut Curry Turnip Soup or Herbed Turnip and Leek Soup. With 18 mouthwatering recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this underrated veggie.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
