Try Something New: Parsnips

photo from Food Mayhem

Do you know what these are? Obviously fries, yes. That they are, but they are not the potato variety you are used to. They are my favorite, parsnip fries. Parsnips, look like a white carrot, but are not in fact white carrots. They taste totally different. To me they taste a bit sweet, tangy have a slight anise flavor. And roasted in the oven they are a complete French fry revelation.

Parsnip season is upon us, my friends. And this is a fantastic root vegetable to have in your fridge. It keeps beautifully just like turnips, carrots and potatoes. Though, I am convinced that after your try parsnips they won't stay in your fridge long. You will be won over. This recipe should do the trick. Justin made these for my birthday, I love them. Warning: no matter how many you make there will not be enough.

Roasted Parsnip Fries

1 lb. parsnips

2 T. olive oil

sea salt

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Peel the parsnips and julienne them to make fry shapes. Alternately you could cut them in a different fashion, but try to keep the shapes uniform to insure even cooking. Toss parsnips on a baking sheet with the olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until fries are crisp outside and tender inside. Serve hot and forget the ketchup, these are better without.

Are you a parsnip fan already? How do you like yours?