Root Vegetables

All about root vegetables, from varieties of root vegetables, how to eat root vegetables, how to store root vegetables and more.

What are Root Vegetables?

Root vegetables are the edible underground parts of plants. This group includes tubers, bulbs, and rhizomes with different flavors, textures, and nutritional content.

What do root vegetables taste like?

• Beets: Sweet and earthy.
• Carrots: Sweet and crunchy.
• Celery Root: Similar to celery but earthier.
• Daikon: Mild and slightly sweet.
• Ginger: Spicy and aromatic.l
• Horseradish: Very pungent and spicy.
• Jerusalem Artichokes: Nutty and sweet.
• Jicama: Crunchy and mildly sweet.
• Onions and Garlic: Pungent and flavorful.
• Parsnips: Sweet with a nutty undertone.
• Potatoes: Starchy with a varying flavor profile, depending on the variety.
• Radishes: Range from peppery to mild.
• Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and earthy.
• Turnips and Rutabagas: Slightly bitter to sweet.
• Turmeric: Earthy and slightly bitter.
• Yuca: Mild and starchy.
• Yams: Starchy and slightly sweet.

What Types of Root Vegetables are There?

This category includes a wide range of vegetables, each with many sub-varieties. For instance, beets come in red, golden, and striped varieties, potatoes come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes, while carrots are found in orange, purple, white, and yellow forms as well as different shapes and sizes.

Difference Between Root Vegetable Varieties

Root vegetables vary in taste and texture. For example, carrots are sweet and crunchy, parsnips are sweeter with a nutty undertone, and turnips can be slightly bitter or sweet. Sweet potatoes are a vibrant orange (among other colors in different varieties) and regular potatoes have a creamy white interior. These differences make them versatile ingredients in cooking.

Root Vegetables Benefits

Root vegetables are typically rich in carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins (like A, B, C), and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. They are also generally low in fat and calories.

When are Root Vegetables in Season?

While most root vegetables are harvested in the fall months, some, such as carrots, onions, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and garlic, are available year-round due to global cultivation.

How to Grow Root Vegetables

Root vegetables typically thrive in loose, well-draining soil and full sunlight. They are commonly grown from seeds or seedlings, with specific spacing and planting depths depending on the variety. Consistent watering and diligent weed control are essential for a good crop.

How to Store Root Vegetables

Most should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. For example, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and onions are best kept in a pantry, while carrots and beets can be refrigerated.

• Beets: Cut off the tops, leaving about an inch of stem on top. Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag with some air holes for up to two weeks.
• Carrots: Remove the tops and store in the crisper section of the refrigerator in a plastic bag. They can last several weeks. Some also cut into pieces and store in water which should be regularly refreshed.
• Celery Root (Celeriac): We typically keep it in the plastic it came in. It can last for one to two weeks. You can also cut into pieces in store in water like the carrots.
• Daikon: Wrap in plastic and refrigerate. It can last for up to two weeks.
• Ginger: Store in a cool, dry place for short-term use, or refrigerate in a plastic bag for longer storage.
• Horseradish: Store in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It can last for a few weeks.
• Jerusalem Artichokes (Sunchokes): Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate in a plastic bag with holes. They can last for up to two weeks.
• Jicama: Keep in a cool, dry place or refrigerate. It can last for up to four weeks.
• Onions and Garlic: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid refrigeration. They can last for several weeks to months.
• Parsnips: Refrigerate in a plastic bag. They can last for several weeks.
• Potatoes: Store in a cool, dark place away from moisture and direct light. Avoid refrigeration, as it can alter their taste and texture.
• Radishes: Remove the greens and store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag. They can last for a week or more.
• Sweet Potatoes: Store in a cool, dark place with good ventilation, avoiding refrigeration, to maintain their quality.
• Turmeric: Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container or plastic bag. It can last for a few weeks.
• Turnips and Rutabagas: Remove the greens and store in the refrigerator. They can last for a few weeks to a month.
• Yuca (Cassava): Store in a cool, dark place for about a week. It can also be refrigerated.
• Yams: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Do not refrigerate, as cold temperatures can affect their taste and texture.

While we mention storing in plastic bags we prefer using stasher bags whenever possible. They’re a great reusable option.

Additional Tips for Storing Root Vegetables

1. Humidity: Some root vegetables, like carrots and beets, benefit from a bit of moisture in their storage environment. This is why storing them in plastic bags in the fridge is very effective.
2. Air Circulation: Onions and garlic require good air circulation, which is why a cool, dry, and ventilated area is ideal conditions for them.
3. Avoid Washing Before Storing: It’s typically best not to wash root vegetables before storing them as moisture can speed up spoilage. Wash them just before use unless it’s something like carrots or celery which can last in fresh water.
4. Darkness: Exposure to light can cause potatoes and other root vegetables to turn green and develop solanine. This is a bitter and potentially harmful compound.
5. Separation: Vegetables like onions and potatoes should be stored separately as they can emit gases that can accelerate spoilage in each other.

How to Freeze Root Vegetables

Freezing usually involves blanching (briefly boiling) and cooling the vegetables in ice water. They should be cut into pieces and stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. You can see this process in our Steamed Broccoli post.

How to Enjoy Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are extremely versatile! Root vegetables can be enjoyed roasted, mashed, baked, boiled, steamed, or included in cakes, muffins, stews and soups. Many, like carrots, beets, and radishes, are also enjoyed raw in salads. Each adds its own unique flavor and texture to dishes, making them staples in diverse cuisines worldwide.

There’s tons of different root vegetables and we’ve discussed the most common above.

Arrowroot

• What are Arrowroots: It’s a starchy root made into arrowroot powder used as a thickener.
• How to pick it out arrow root: Choose firm, smooth roots.
• How to store arrow root: Store dry and in a cool place.
• When is arrowroot in season: Available year-round.
• Can you freeze arrowroot: It’s best used fresh or dried.
• What are the benefits of arrowroot?: It’s a gluten-free option and also good for digestion. Gluten-free, good for digestion.
• How to enjoy arrowroot: Most commonly used in cooking as a thickening agent.

Beetroot (Beets)

• What are Beets?: Earthy, deep red root vegetables.
• How to pick out beets: Select firm, smooth, deep-colored roots without spots.
• How to store beets: Refrigerate, but remove the tops first.
• When are beets in season: Summer to autumn.
• Can you freeze beets: Yes, cook, peel, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of beets: High in fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Beetroots are also known for their ability to lower blood pressure and anti-inflammatory properties.
• How to enjoy beets: Roasted, pickled, or even raw in salads.

Beet Juice – Quick Pickled Beets – Roasted Beets and Sweet Potatoes – Beet Potato Salad

Burdock

• What is Burdock: Long, slender roots used in Asian cuisine.
• How to pick out burdock: Choose firm roots that are smooth and without wrinkles.
• How to store burdock: Wrap in a damp cloth and refrigerate.
• When is burdock in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze burdock: Yes, you can freeze it. You can chop prior or leave whole.
• Benefits of burdock: Fiber, potassium, and prebiotic properties.
• How to enjoy burdock: Raw, cooked, stir-fried, in soups.

Carrots

• What are Carrots: Popular, crunchy, sweet root vegetables.
• How to pick out carrots: Firm, bright-colored. Avoid ones that bend or are dried out.
• How to store carrots: We like to keep them in their original bag; otherwise, you can wash, peel, cut, and store them in a container with water. Make sure you’re rinsing and refreshing the water.
• When are carrots in season: Year-round, best in late spring through fall.
• Can you freeze carrots: Yes, blanch and freeze.
• What are the benefits of carrots: Beta-carotene, vitamins.
• How to enjoy carrots: Raw, roasted, in salads, or soups.

How to Grow Carrots – Rainbow Roasted Carrots – Mashed Carrots – Orange Carrot Juice – How to Grow Carrots

Cassava (Yuca)

• What is Cassava: Starchy tuber, a staple in tropical diets.
• How to pick out cassava: Firm, without blemishes or soft spots.
• How to store cassava: Cool, dark place; use within a week.
• When is cassava in season: Available year-round.
• Can you freeze cassava: Yes, peel, blanch, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of cassava: Energy source, vitamin C.
• How to enjoy cassava: Boiled, fried, in flour form.

Celeriac (Celery Root)

• What is Celeriac?: Knobby root with a celery-like flavor.
• How to pick out celeriac: Choose firm roots, no soft spots.
• How to store celeriac: Refrigerate in a plastic bag.
• When is celeriac in season: Fall and winter.
• How to freeze celeriac: Yes, blanch and freeze.
• What are the benefits of celeriac: Vitamin K, antioxidants.
• How to enjoy celeriac: Mashed, in soups, salads.

Daikon Radish

• What is Daikon Radish: Large, mild-flavored Asian radishes.
• How to pick out daikon radish: Firm, smooth, without blemishes.
• How to store daikon radish: Refrigerate in a plastic bag.
• When is daikon radish in season: Winter.
• How to freeze daikon radish: Yes, but loses crispness.
• What are the benefits of daikon radish: Low in calories, high in vitamin C.
• How to enjoy daikon radish: Raw, pickled, in salads.

Garlic

• What is Garlic: Pungent, aromatic bulb used in cooking and medicine.
• How to pick out garlic: Firm, unblemished bulbs with papery skin.
• How to store garlic: Keep in a cool, dark place with good ventilation.
• When is garlic in season: Available year-round.
• Can you freeze garlic: Yes, can be frozen whole or minced.
• What are the benefits of garlic: Anti-inflammatory properties, aids digestion.
• How to enjoy garlic: In cooking, as a spice, in dressings, marinades, and other flavorful infusions.

Chinese Garlic Sauce – Roasted Baby Boy Choy – Roasted Baby Potatoes – Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce – Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Vegan Garlic Bread

Ginger

• What is Ginger: Pungent, spicy root used in cooking and medicine.
• How to pick out ginger: Firm, smooth skin, heavy for size.
• How to store ginger: Refrigerate in a bag or freeze.
• When is ginger in season: Available year-round.
• Can you freeze ginger: Yes, can be frozen whole or minced.
• What are the benefits of ginger: Anti-inflammatory, digestive aid.
• How to enjoy ginger: In teas, cooking, as a spice.

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Horseradish

• What is Horseradish: Pungent root used as a condiment.
• How to pick out horseradish: Firm, no soft spots.
• How to store horseradish: Refrigerate, in a jar or wrapped.
• When is horseradish in season: Fall and spring.
• Can you freeze horseradish: Grate and freeze in small portions.
• What are the benefits of horseradish: Vitamin C, may clear sinuses.
• How to enjoy horseradish: Grated as a condiment, in sauces.

Jerusalem Artichokes (Sunchokes)

• What are Jerusalem Artichokes: Nutty and sweet root vegetables.
• How to pick out Jerusalem artichokes: Firm, without blemishes.
• How to store Jerusalem artichokes: Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerate in a plastic bag with holes.
• When are Jerusalem artichokes in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze Jerusalem artichokes: Yes, peel, chop, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of Jerusalem artichokes: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• How to enjoy Jerusalem artichokes: You can enjoy them roasted, mashed, in soups, or as a side dish.

Jicama

• What is Jicama: Crunchy, sweet root popular in Mexican cuisine.
• How to pick out jicama: Firm, dry, and fairly smooth.
• How to store jicama: Cool, dry place; refrigerate cut pieces.
• When is jicama in season: Available year-round.
• How to freeze jicama: Not recommended.
• What are the benefits of jicama: Fiber, vitamin C.
• How to enjoy jicama: You can enjoy them raw in salads, stir-fried.

Lotus Root

• What are Lotus Roots: Crunchy root with a pattern of holes.
• How to pick out lotus root: Firm, without blemishes.
• How to store lotus root: Refrigerate in a plastic bag.
• When is lotus root in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze lotus root: Yes, blanch and freeze.
• What are the benefits of lotus root: Vitamins, minerals, fiber.
• How to enjoy lotus root: You can enjoy them, stir-fried, in soups, pickled.

Malanga

• What is Malanga: Tropical root with a nutty flavor.
• How to pick out malanga: Firm, without soft spots.
• How to store malanga: Cool, dark place.
• When is malanga in season: Available year-round.
• How to freeze malanga: Yes, cook and freeze.
• What are the benefits of malanga: Energy source, fiber.
• How to enjoy malanga: You can enjoy them boiled, mashed, in soups.

Onions

• What are Onions: Pungent and flavorful root vegetables.
• How to pick out onions: Firm, dry, with papery skin.
• How to store onions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid refrigeration.
• When are onions in season: Year-round.
• Can you freeze onions: Yes, chop and freeze.
• What are the benefits of onions: Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory.
• How to enjoy onions: You can enjoy them sautéed, caramelized, in various dishes.

Vegan Mashed Potatoes with Fried Onions – Baked Sausage Peppers Onions and Potatoes – Roasted Peppers and Onions – Roasted Breakfast Potatoes with Peppers and Onions – Sweet Balsamic Onion Relish Recipe

Parsnips

• What are Parsnips: Sweet, nutty-flavored root vegetables.
• How to pick out parnsips: Firm, smooth, small to medium size.
• How to store parsnips: Refrigerate in a plastic bag.
• When are parsnips in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze parsnips: Yes, blanch and freeze.
• What are the benefits of parsnips: Fiber, vitamins.
• How to enjoy parsnips: You can enjoy them roasted, in soups, mashed.

Potatoes

• What are Potatoes: Starchy and versatile root vegetables.
• How to pick out potatoes: Choose firm potatoes without sprouting or green spots.
• How to store potatoes: Store in a cool, dark place away from moisture and direct light. Avoid refrigeration.
• When are potatoes in season: Available year-round.
• How to freeze potatoes: We don’t recommend freezing unless cooked, but they will change in texture.
• What are the benefits of potatoes: Good source of carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamins.
• How to enjoy potatoes: You can enjoy them as boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, fried like french fries, or used in soups, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes.

Mashed Potatoes – Scalloped Potatoes Recipe – How to Grow Potatoes – Potato Latkes – Deviled Potatoes – Air Fryer Baked Potatoes – Vegan Potato Salad

Radish

• What are Radishes: Small, spicy root vegetables.
• How to pick out radishes: Firm, bright color, fresh leaves.
• How to store radishes: Refrigerate, remove tops.
• When are radishes in season: Spring and fall.
• How to freeze radishes: Not recommended.
• What are the benefits of radishes: Low in calories, vitamin C.
• How to enjoy radishes: You can enjoy them raw, in salads, pickled.

Roasted Radishes with Garlic and Parsley

Rutabaga

• What is Rutabaga: Large, sweet, and slightly bitter root vegetables.
• How to pick out rutabaga: Firm, heavy for size, no soft spots.
• How to store rutabaga: Cool, humid place.
• When is rutabaga in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze rutabaga: Yes, cook, mash, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of rutabaga: Vitamin C, fiber.
• How to enjoy rutabaga: You can enjoy them mashed, roasted, in stews.

Salsify

• What is Salsify: Root vegetable with an oyster-like flavor.
• How to pick out salsify: Firm, slender roots.
• How to store salsify: Refrigerate in a plastic bag.
• When is salsify in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze salsify: Yes, blanch and freeze.
• What are the benefits of salsify: Potassium, vitamins
• How to enjoy salsify: Salsify is enjoyed roasted, in soups, or as a side dish.

Sweet Potato

• What are Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and earthy root vegetables.
• How to pick out sweet potatoes: Firm, with smooth skin and vibrant color.
• How to store sweet potatoes: Store in a cool, dark place with good ventilation, avoiding refrigeration.
• When are sweet potatoes in season: Available year-round, with peak season in the fall.
• Can you freeze sweet potatoes: Yes, cook, mash, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of sweet potatoes: Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber.
• How to enjoy sweet potatoes: You can enjoy them as a baked sweet potato, mashed sweet potatoes, roasted, in pies like sweet potato pie, sweet potato fries, and more.

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Turmeric

• What is Turmeric: Earthy and slightly bitter root.
• How to pick out turmeric: Firm, aromatic.
• How to store turmeric: Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container or plastic bag.
• When is turmeric in season: Year-round.
• Can you freeze turmeric: Yes, peel, chop, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of turmeric: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.
• How to enjoy turmeric: Used in curries, soups, and as a spice.

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Turnips

• What are Turnips: Slightly bitter to sweet root vegetables.
• How to pick out turnips: Firm, smooth, with healthy greens if attached.
• How to store turnips: Remove the greens and store in the refrigerator.
• When are turnips in season: Fall and winter.
• Can you freeze turnips: Yes, peel, chop, and freeze.
• What are the benefits of turnips: High in vitamin C, fiber, and minerals.
• How to enjoy turnips: You can enjoy it roasted, mashed, in stews, or as a side dish.

Yams

• What are Yams: Starchy and slightly sweet root vegetables.
• How to pick out yams: Firm, smooth, no soft spots.
• How to store yams: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Do not refrigerate.
• When are yams in season: Year-round.
• Can you freeze yams: Yes, cook and freeze.
• What are the benefits of yams: Good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins.
• How to enjoy yams: You can enjoy them baked, mashed, in casseroles, or as fries.