Storing Turnips and Rutabagas

What is the best method of storing turnips and rutabagas?

Turnips and rutabagas are often confused with one another. If you have trouble telling the difference, these tips may help.

Turnips have white skin and purplish top. It is sometimes called white turnip.

Rutabagas have a thin, pale yellow skin with smooth, waxy leaves. Rutabagas can be called everything from “yellow turnip” to “swede” to “neep”. It is also sometimes even referred to as just a “turnip”.
turnip
Photo credit: @HTO3
 

Fresh Turnips and Rutabagas

If you happen to have turnips or rutabagas with the tops still attached, they can be stored in a cold (32°F or 0°C) humid environment.  They need to be stored on shelves or in baskets so that there is good air circulation around them.

These turnips can be stored for 4 to 6 months.

Turnips and rutabagas with the tops removed can be stored in the refrigerator.  

 

Waxed Turnips and Rutabagas

Often stores will sell rutabagas that have been coated with wax.  This is done to prevent moisture loss.  If they are not coated with wax, wrap them tightly in plastic.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

If you found this post useful, or if you have any tips for storing rutabagas or turnips, please leave a comment.

4 Comments on “Storing Turnips and Rutabagas

  1. Very helpful. I pick rutabagas and made so much I’m glad I am able to freeze them. I prefer them without wax because I wash them and put them in water and boil them til a knife slipped in. The skin peels off easily. I have dedicated a pot for cooking the waxed ones since cleanup is messy.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*