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Kohlrabi Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kohlrabi

[ˈkoʊlˌrɑːbi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

vegetable variety

Kohlrabi is a biennial vegetable belonging to the cabbage family, Brassicaceae. It is characterized by a swollen, edible stem that can be green or purple and is usually consumed raw or cooked. The taste is mild and slightly sweet, reminiscent of a cross between cabbage and apple. This vegetable is high in nutrients and low in calories, making it a popular addition to salads and stir-fries. It is cultivated worldwide and is particularly popular in Europe and parts of Asia.

Synonyms

German turnip, turnip cabbage.

Examples of usage

  • I added kohlrabi to my salad for extra crunch.
  • Kohlrabi can be roasted or steamed for a delicious side dish.
  • In German cuisine, kohlrabi is often used in soups.
  • She sliced kohlrabi thinly for the vegetable platter.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Use

  • Kohlrabi can be sliced raw for salads, roasted for a sweet flavor, or pureed for soups, demonstrating its versatile nature in cooking.
  • It is commonly used in German cuisine but has gained popularity worldwide due to its crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • This vegetable is low in calories yet high in vitamins C and K, which makes it a healthy choice for adding crunch to meals.
  • Kohlrabi is also rich in fiber, which aids digestion, making it a beneficial addition to a balanced diet.

Cultivation

  • Kohlrabi thrives in cool weather, which makes it great for growing in spring and fall, showcasing its adaptability in different climates.
  • It belongs to the Brassica family, which includes other vegetables like cabbage, kale, and broccoli, all sharing similar growing conditions.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, kohlrabi is celebrated during harvest festivals, showcasing its importance in traditional meals and agricultural practices.
  • The vegetable has been cultivated for centuries, with historical references found in ancient texts, highlighting its long-standing presence in agriculture.

Origin of 'kohlrabi'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'kohlrabi' comes from the German language, where 'kohl' means cabbage and 'rabi' means turnip, illustrating its relationship with both plants.
  • In many languages, the name reflects its dual nature, combining cabbage and root vegetable elements of its identity.

The term 'kohlrabi' is derived from the German words 'kohl,' meaning 'cabbage,' and 'rabi,' meaning 'turnip.' The vegetable is believed to have originated in Europe during the late medieval period, where it quickly became popular due to its versatility and nutritional value. As a member of the Brassica oleracea species, which also includes common vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, kohlrabi has been cultivated for centuries. It spread to various cuisines around the world, particularly in regions with cooler climates where cabbage varieties thrive. The unique structure of kohlrabi, with its swollen stem, sets it apart from other vegetables in the cabbage family, leading to varying cultivation practices and culinary uses. Today, kohlrabi is recognized not only for its health benefits but also for its distinct flavor and texture, allowing it to be used in a variety of dishes ranging from salads to stews.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,636, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.