Different Ways to Cook Radishes

The radish (Raphanus sativus) is a root vegetable that is rich in many essential minerals like sodium, potassium, iron, magnesium, copper, etc., and vitamins A, C, E and K along with folic acid and niacin. There are different types of radish found in different parts of the world and these include the daikon or Japanese radish, the black Spanish radish, the greenish radish found in parts of China and the watermelon radish. Radishes are rich in antioxidants that help reduce the signs of aging and are a good source of dietary fiber. Also, the radish is a low-calorie vegetable and can be safely consumed by people who are on a diet. Now that we have learned about the many health benefits of radish, a few tips on how to cook radishes would definitely help, isn't it?

Many Ways to Cook Radishes

Here you'll find different ways to cook radishes along with a few recipes. Each method of cooking can add a different taste and flavor to the vegetable. So, just have a look!

Frying
You can cut the radish into small pieces and then stir fry lightly in a pan. You can even cut a few other vegetables and fry them along with the radish. Japanese radishes and black radishes are best for sautés. You can add spices to add to the taste or garnish it as you would love to. Remember not to peel off the radish completely as it is the peel that is rich in antioxidants. Just wash the vegetables properly before you fry them.

Boiling
This is the next best way to eat a radish than eating it raw because boiling preserves most of the nutrients that are lost if the vegetable is cooked. Just slice the radish into small pieces and boil it in water for a few minutes till it becomes soft. You can then sprinkle salt and black pepper on it for a tasty yet low-calorie snack.

Roasting
It is easy and hassle free to roast a radish and you can do it in no time! Just cut the radish into a few slices and add seasonings along with a little olive oil and some spices if you wish to. Now, preheat the oven and place the seasoned slices inside it. Roast the slices for a few minutes till they are soft. Your delicious snack is ready!

Steaming
Instead of boiling, you can also steam the radishes using a steamer. You can either use the whole radish or cut it into bigger slices and expose to steam for a few minutes. You can add steamed radishes to a variety of dishes including salads and soups.

Recipes to Cook Radishes

Now, we shall look into two recipes that will give you a better idea about the different ways to cook radishes.

Radish Chips
Here is the recipe to make delicious, crispy radish chips that are low on calories. How, you might wonder. Well, it is all about baking the vegetable instead of frying it! Sounds interesting? Read on...

Ingredients

• 3 radishes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Seasonings

Method: The first step is to boil the radishes whole till they are fork-tender. Remember that they should not be too soft. Now, add the salt and powdered black pepper into a bowl, add the seasonings of your choice and mix all the spices well. Cut the radishes into relatively big slices and put them into the bowl and stir till each slice gets smeared with the spices. Then place the slices in a preheated oven and bake for a few minutes before you can munch on them!

Radish Sandwiches
This is yet another easy-to-make snack that you can surprise your friends with. And what's more, it's low on calories just like the previous recipe. Here's how to make yummy sandwiches using radishes.

Ingredients

• Four slices of fresh bread
• 6 small fresh radishes
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper

Note that the quantity of the ingredients given above serves four people.

Method: The first step is to cut each slice of bread into four parts. Then wash the radishes and cut them into thin slices but don't peel them. You can even chop a few radish leaves if you have and keep them aside. Now, spread the butter evenly on one side of each triangular piece of bread and between two pieces of bread, place a few slices of radish along with some chopped leaves. Serve with salt and grounded black pepper.

There are many more ways to cook radishes and all you need is to be creative. Try experimenting with different ingredients, seasonings or even different methods of cooking. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and make this nutritious low-calorie vegetable a part of your daily diet and stay fit!