Kohlrabi: Why This “Spaceship” Vegetable Deserves a Spot on Your Plate
/Kohlrabi may look like something from outer space, but this unique vegetable has deep agricultural roots and impressive culinary versatility. Sometimes nicknamed the “spaceship” or “sputnik” veggie because of its bulbous shape and sprouting leaves, kohlrabi is a hidden gem in the world of fresh produce—crisp, mildly sweet, and packed with nutrients.
Whether you’re new to kohlrabi or looking for fresh ways to use it, here’s everything you need to know about its history, health benefits, and what makes it truly one of a kind.
What Is Kohlrabi?
Kohlrabi is a member of the Brassica (or cole crop) family, which includes familiar vegetables like kale, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens. Despite its turnip-like appearance, kohlrabi is not a root vegetable. Like all brassicas, it grows above ground, forming a swollen stem (often called a bulb) with leafy stalks extending from the sides and top.
The name kohlrabi comes from German:
“Kohl” meaning cabbage
“Rübe” meaning turnip
Together, the name reflects its cabbage-like flavor with a turnip-like shape.
A Brief History of Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is believed to have originated in Northern Europe, where it was developed from wild cabbage. Written records suggest it was cultivated in Germany by the mid-1500s, making it a relatively “young” vegetable compared to ancient crops like wheat or lentils.
From Europe, kohlrabi spread throughout Asia and eventually to North America, where it has remained more popular among home gardeners and farmers’ market shoppers than in mainstream grocery stores. Today, it’s prized in many global cuisines—from creamy European soups to crisp Asian stir-fries and slaws.
What Makes Kohlrabi So Unique?
Kohlrabi stands out for several reasons:
Above-ground bulb: Unlike most bulb-shaped vegetables, kohlrabi is a thickened stem, not a root.
Edible from leaf to bulb: Both the bulb and leaves are edible, similar to beets or turnips.
Flavor and texture: Often described as a delightful combination of:
the crunch of a radish
the sweetness of jicama
a subtle hint of broccoli
Visual appeal: Available in pale green and vibrant purple varieties, it adds color and interest to any dish.
How to Select the Best Kohlrabi
For the most tender and flavorful kohlrabi, look for:
Bulbs about 3–4 inches in diameter
A bulb that feels heavy for its size
Smooth, uncracked skin
Fresh, unblemished leaves
Avoid oversized or cracked bulbs, which tend to be fibrous and woody. Don’t discard the leaves—they’re delicious sautéed, steamed, or added to soups.
How to Store Kohlrabi
Proper storage helps kohlrabi last for weeks:
Separate the leaves from the bulb
Wrap leaves in a damp paper towel
Store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator (use within ~3 days)
Store the bulb
Scrub clean, wrap loosely, and refrigerate
De-leafed bulbs can keep several weeks when stored properly
Kohlrabi Nutrition and Health Benefits
Kohlrabi is a nutritional powerhouse, especially for such a low-calorie vegetable. One cup of raw kohlrabi provides:
140% of daily vitamin C – supports immune health
19% of daily fiber – promotes gut health and digestion
3% of daily calcium – contributes to bone health
Like other brassicas, kohlrabi contains beneficial phytochemicals such as isothiocyanates and sulforaphane, compounds studied for their role in supporting the body’s natural detoxification systems and helping protect against certain cancers.
It’s also naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories, making it an excellent choice for balanced, nutrient-dense meals.
How to Prepare and Cook Kohlrabi
One of kohlrabi’s greatest strengths is its versatility. It can be enjoyed raw or cooked, sweet or savory.
Raw ideas
Thinly sliced or shredded in salads and slaws
Cut into sticks for dipping
Julienned for a crunchy topping on grain bowls
Cooked ideas
Chopped into soups or stews
Boiled and mashed with potatoes or other vegetables
Sautéed with garlic and olive oil
Roasted kohlrabi (a fan favorite)
Peel the bulb
Cut into wedges or chunks
Toss with oil and a sprinkle of salt
Roast in a hot oven until browned and tender
Roasting brings out a surprising sweetness and creates a caramelized, comforting texture.
Why Kohlrabi Deserves More Love
Kohlrabi may not be the most familiar vegetable, but its mild flavor, crisp texture, and impressive nutrition make it a standout. Easy to grow, simple to prepare, and endlessly adaptable, this “spaceship” veggie is a reminder that sometimes the most interesting foods are hiding just beyond the usual produce aisle.
If you’re looking to add variety to your meals, kohlrabi is a delicious place to start.