If you’re looking to take a break on Mondays from beef, pork, or chicken without sacrificing that crispy, golden bite, kohlrabi has you covered. This cabbage-based powerhouse delivers a firm, juicy texture with a mild, nutty flavor—making it a perfect plant-based schnitzel alternative. Plus, it’s not just good for your health, but also a win for animal welfare and the environment.
What is Kohlrabi?
A proud member of the cabbage family, kohlrabi shares its roots (literally) with cauliflower, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts. Its name comes from the German words Kohl (cabbage) and Rübe (beet or turnip), though in Switzerland, you’ll hear it called Rabi. While it’s a staple in Germany and Eastern Europe, kohlrabi is also beloved in the Kashmir region of India, where it goes by Knolkhal or Nookhal.
Looking to buy exquisite German breading and seasonings to make Kohlrabi Schnitzel? Visit our sister site TheTasteOfGermany for a selection of German breading and seasonings and herbs!
How to Eat Kohlrabi
Versatile and nutrient-packed, kohlrabi can be enjoyed raw—stem, leaves, and all—or cooked in a variety of ways. Sliced thin and simmered in a creamy herb sauce with Petersilie (parsley), it’s a German classic. But don’t stop there—fry it up as kohlrabi fries, toss it into a hearty soup, or bake it into a comforting gratin. The best part? Kohlrabi holds its shape and stays firm when cooked, making it an ideal meat substitute.
Where to Find Kohlrabi
Where to Find KohlrabiThough kohlrabi has been grown in the U.S. since the early 1800s, it’s still not as common as its brassica cousins. You’ll have the best luck finding it in the Northeast and Midwest, at farmer’s markets, CSA boxes, or specialty food stores. And in Germany? You’ll spot it überall—from supermarkets to local farm stands.
Most kohlrabi varieties are at peak flavor when they’re about the size of an apple or peach, though some have been bred to stay tender even when they grow larger.
Ready to Cook? Crunchy, Savory Twist on Classic Meals:
Try these Kohlrabi recipes:
Recipe for Kohlrabi Schnitzel – A meatless spin on the classic, fried to perfection.
Recipe for Creamed Kohlrabi – A comforting, creamy side dish.
Recipe for Kohlrabi Potato Gratin – Layers of cheesy, golden-brown goodness.
Recipe for Kohlrabi Soup – A velvety bowl of warmth.
Recipe for Kohlrabi Fries – Crispy, savory, and completely addictive.
Who says Meatless Monday has to be boring? With kohlrabi on the menu, you get crunch, flavor, and a taste of German tradition all in one bite.
