The bitter roots velouté is a warm, enveloping cream with an intense, slightly bitter taste — ideal for those who appreciate authentic seasonal flavors. Smooth, balanced and nourishing, it makes a perfect light yet satisfying first course, suitable for a healthy and natural diet.
Thanks to an initial blanching step, the bitterness is mellowed and pleasant, allowing a delicate velvety texture to shine. A simple, genuine recipe that elegantly highlights roots in the kitchen.
SEASONALITY and period for Soncino bitter roots: from October to March.
RECIPES with winter turnips
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Budget-friendly
- Preparation time: 15 Minutes
- Portions: 4 Servings
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Healthy
- Seasonality: Autumn, Winter
Bitter Roots Velouté
- 1 lb 12 oz bitter roots (approx. 1 lb 7 oz net weight (about 650 g))
- 2 potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion (red, white or yellow)
- 1 clove garlic (optional)
- extra virgin olive oil
- 1 1/4 cups milk (plant-based or cow's)
- 1 1/4 cups water
- to taste salt
- to taste spices (nutmeg, chili pepper, rosemary, sage)
Tools
- Pot tall
- Hand blender
Bitter Roots Velouté
Wash the bitter roots well without peeling them, slice them into rounds and place them as you go in a bowl of plain water to prevent browning. If needed, remove the central core when it is particularly fibrous or woody, as it could affect the final texture of the velouté, making it less smooth and more stringy. To further reduce their bitter taste, add a little lemon or white vinegar to the soaking water and to the cooking water.
After soaking, bring the roots to a boil in clean lightly salted water and let them simmer for 5–7 minutes. This blanching step helps balance the flavor. Drain and return them to the pan.
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into even cubes, then slice the carrots and onion. Combine all the vegetables in the pot along with the already blanched and well-drained bitter roots.
Salt, pour in the water and milk in the desired proportions (for example half and half), bring gently to a light boil, cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender. At this point turn off the heat and blend until you obtain a smooth, velvety cream; if necessary add water or return to the heat to thicken.
Adjust salt and let rest a few minutes before serving, so the texture settles and flavors harmonize.
SERVE
Ladle the velouté into bowls, finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and, if you like, a sprinkle of chili pepper or nutmeg.
For a more intense aromatic touch, add a fine chop of rosemary and sage, which will enhance the character of the roots without masking their flavor. Serve immediately, piping hot.
STORING the bitter roots velouté
The bitter roots velouté keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen and will keep for up to 2 months; when ready to serve, gently reheat and add a little liquid if needed.
FAQ (Questions & Answers)
Is the bitter roots velouté really bitter?
No, when prepared correctly the taste is delicate and balanced. Bitter roots, like scorzobianca, lose much of their sharp note thanks to simple pre-treatments such as soaking in water with lemon, or a brief blanching before the actual cooking.
Can the bitter roots velouté cause flatulence?
Like many fiber-rich vegetables, bitter roots can cause some bloating or flatulence, especially if you’re not used to them. To reduce this effect, it is advisable to cook them well, blend them finely and consume moderate portions, especially at first.
Is this dish suitable for people with digestive issues?
Generally yes, because the velouté is smooth and easy to digest. However, those with particularly sensitive intestines should be careful with quantities due to the fiber content which can stimulate bowel activity.
Are there contraindications to consuming bitter roots?
Bitter roots are generally safe, but it is better to avoid or limit them in cases of gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome or acute intestinal disorders, as they could be irritating. In case of specific conditions or ongoing therapies, it is always a good idea to ask your doctor.
Is the bitter roots velouté suitable for a healthy diet?
Absolutely yes. It is a light dish, rich in fiber and perfect for those following a balanced diet. Made with few ingredients and without excess fat, it is also ideal for cleansing or seasonal eating plans.
