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Turnip Patties

Helen T. Patterson
Golden, crispy, and packed with flavor, these Turnip Patties combine mashed turnips, eggs, pecans, onions, and bacon.
Perfectly sweetened with brown sugar and finished with a touch of maple syrup, they make a satisfying, quick, and fiber-rich side dish suitable for everyday meals or special gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 20 (patties)

Equipment

  • 1 large microwave-safe dish
  • Paper towels (folded, for microwave use)
  • 1 sharp knife (for chopping and peeling)
  • 1 Potato Masher
  • 1 mixing bowl (medium to large)
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 Large skillet
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 1 medium turnip
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • cup yellow onion diced
  • ¼ cup Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup pecans crushed
  • ½ cup cooked bacon chopped
  • Olive oil for frying
  • Maple syrup for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the turnip: Fold a paper towel and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Stand the turnip on one end on top of the towel.
    Microwave on high for 10 minutes. Carefully turn the turnip onto the other end and microwave for an additional 10 minutes.
    Once cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
  • Peel and mash the turnip: Trim off both ends of the turnip. Using two forks or a vegetable peeler, remove the skin completely.
    Transfer the peeled turnip to a medium mixing bowl and mash thoroughly with a potato masher until smooth and creamy.
  • Prepare the mix-ins: While the turnip cooks, dice the yellow onion and chop the cooked bacon into small pieces.
    Crush the pecans if they aren’t pre-crushed. These ingredients will add texture and bursts of flavor to the patties.
  • Combine ingredients: To the mashed turnip, add the eggs, gluten-free flour, and brown sugar.
    Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated. Fold in the diced onions, chopped bacon, and crushed pecans.
    Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed to create a cohesive mixture.
  • Form the patties: Heat a generous layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    Using a spoon or a 3-tablespoon scoop, drop portions of the turnip mixture into the hot oil.
    Gently flatten each mound with a spatula to form evenly shaped patties about ½-inch thick.
  • Cook until golden: Fry the patties for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
    Flip carefully to avoid breaking the patties. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.
  • Finish and serve: Transfer cooked patties to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to drain any excess oil.
    Repeat with remaining mixture. Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite meals, and drizzle with maple syrup for a subtle sweet finish that complements the savory flavors.

Notes

  • Choose medium-sized turnips for even cooking and easier mashing.
  • Fully peel the turnip after microwaving to avoid tough skin in patties.
  • Make sure the olive oil is hot but not smoking before frying to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
  • Flatten patties evenly for uniform cooking; about ½-inch thick works best.
  • Adjust maple syrup to taste for a balance of sweet and savory.
  • Use gluten-free flour or all-purpose flour depending on dietary preference.
  • Patties can be doubled or halved easily for larger or smaller gatherings.