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Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a biennial plant, which means that it blooms on its second year and then dies afterwards. It is a member of the Apaiaceae family, which also includes the carrot, dill, cumin, parsley and caraway. Parsnip has such a very strong resemblance to the carrot so much so that many confuse the two. The only difference is that carrot is typically orange, while parsnip has a lighter color hue.
Historically, parsnip has been cultivated by ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. However, there are not many details to be found, because at one point, they were categorized as carrots (pastinaca) due to their similar appearances.
Parsnip is typically planted before the winter season because that’s the time it produces its unique, sweet flavor. A fully mature parsnip plant can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters tall (leaves and vegetable included). It’s a favorite among gardeners who favor cultivating crops with short growing seasons.
Recent studies on parsnip have shed light on some of its health benefits. The most prominent ones you should take note of include:5
•Improved Heart Health
Parsnip contains a generous amount of potassium, which acts as a vasodilator (a compound that prevents arteries and veins from tightening, thereby reducing blood pressure and stress on your heart. It also contains folate, which helps reduce homocysteine levels in your blood that are linked to heart disease.
•Good Source of Fiber
Parsnip is known for being a great source of soluble fiber, which can help reduce your bad cholesterol levels and risk of diabetes. In addition, it can help improve your digestive health by helping food move smoothly through your intestines, which can help reduce constipation and other common digestive disorders.
•Reduced Risk of Birth Defects
The folate in parsnip is known to help reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects in infants. It is also linked to lower levels of depression, and may even help mothers with newborn infants cope with postpartum depression.
•Help in Weight Management
The soluble fiber in parsnip can help you feel full longer and prevents the release of ghrelin, which is the hunger hormone. In essence, it can help you reduce the volume of food you eat throughout the day, thereby helping you maintain your weight.
•Gives the Immune System a Boost
Parsnip contains vitamins C and E, which can help rid your body of free radicals that can potentially cause various diseases. Vitamin C can also help produce white blood cells to boost your immune system and ward off foreign microbes.
Cooking parsnip is similar to cooking a carrot. Here are a few methods you can try:
Before you cook with parsnip though, you must learn how to choose the best ones to get the best flavor. Always go for firm small or medium parsnips, because large parsnips are more fibrous and difficult to cook. Avoid those with lots of whiskers and brown patches because these typically indicate a poor-quality harvest. Ideally, you should obtain your parsnip from a certified organic farmer.
