Rutabaga (or Swede)

I love swede! It’s a super tasty vegetable, lovely in winter food. But it’s often forgotten about, and less used than potatoes, carrots and parsnips, for example. Let’s look at some of its benefits.

A forgotten low-carb hero.

The rutabaga is very commonly used in Northern European cuisine. Maybe that’s why I’m so fond of it, with my Norwegian upbringing! I remember it always being a represented on my Nan’s dinner table around Christmas for example, usually in the form of mash. It had quite an overpowering, but at the same time really pleasing, smell. But as much as I enjoy cooking with this chunky vegetable, I realised I don’t know much about it, other than that it is a lovely low carb alternative to potatoes.

So let’s learn a bit more about the rutabaga. I’m going to call it a “swede” from now on, as that is how I know it:

Well, what I thought was true: it is low in carbs. And also low in calories - but luckily still very nutritious! One medium sized swede contains more than 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C! Now you might not eat a whole swede yourself in one sitting, but still. That’s pretty impressive. As we know by now, vitamin C is great for your immune system, iron absorption and collagen synthesis. It also contains a good amount of fibre, potassium, magnesium and calcium, and also some protein and vitamin E.

It is high in antioxidants (vitamin C being one of those), and actually - a food that contains vitamin C and E together is great because these two work closely together to protect your cells.

Swedes also contain glucosinolates, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and the risk of heart disease, as well as prostate and breast cancer. So whatever gender you are - get some of this on your plate!

As it is fairly high in fibre, it can help you with weight loss if you want it, and also promotes good bowel health.

I honestly can’t find any info that suggests you should avoid these for any reason (although always listen to your body and how it reacts to all food), so give them a go!

Do you like swede? How do you use it? Message me on Instagram @TheFromScratchBody!