Turnips aren’t one of those happy-go-lucky neutral vegetables, like green beans for example, that seem to get along with everyone. No, turnips have a bit more “I dare you to eat me” attitude, that unfortunately ends up keeping too many people away from them. Well, if you are a turnip lover, you should be drooling right now, just with the very concept of this turnip gratin, a casserole layered with thinly sliced, tender turnips, onions, bread, and bubbly browned Gruyere cheese. You will not be disappointed (at least I hope you won’t). If you fall in the “uh, maybe not, no, no thank you” camp, if there is one recipe that could possibly change your mind, this is it. We have made it 4 times in the last 2 weeks and will likely find its way to our Thanksgiving table this year. So, if you’re on the fence, give it a shot! This recipe serves four, but it can easily be doubled. If you double it, use a 9x13 casserole dish. This recipe works best with young turnips with relatively high moisture. Large old turnips, or storage turnips, that are tougher and drier may need to be blanched for more than 3 minutes. Layer on all of the onions. Sprinkle with half of the cheese. Add another layer of bread, turnips, and cheese. Sprinkle again with salt and pepper. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Cardoon Gratin - from Hunter Angler Gardener Cook
