"I don't peel turnips, beets, and carrots before cooking them,” says Lanier.
Crispy Smashed Root Vegetables
- 4 small turnips ((about 1 pound), scrubbed)
- 4 small beets ((about 1 pound), scrubbed)
- 8 small carrots ((about ¾ pound), scrubbed)
- ¾ cup cup olive oil
- Coarse salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 small onion (quartered)
- 4 cloves garlic ((not peeled), crushed)
- 1 small bunch Swiss chard ((about ½ pound), stems cut into 1-inch pieces, leaves cut into 1-inch strips)
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
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In a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat, cover turnips, beets, and carrots with 2 inches water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are fork-tender, checking frequently after 15 minutes, as the vegetables will likely be ready at different times. Transfer vegetables to a paper towel-lined baking sheet and let cool.
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Preheat oven to 200°F. Meanwhile, using the bottom of a glass or small pan, gently smash vegetables. Heat oil in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, fry the vegetables, flipping once, until brown and crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to paper towel-lined baking sheet and season with salt and pepper; keep warm in oven while remaining vegetables cook.
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Carefully drain off all but 2 tablespoons oil and return pan to medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and Swiss chard stems and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions and garlic are light golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add Swiss chard leaves and thyme and cook, stirring frequently, until leaves are wilted, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then push greens mixture to one side of pan. Add butter to skillet; once it heats up and begins to foam, spoon it over greens mixture, tossing to combine. Arrange reserved root vegetables on a serving platter. Top with sautéed greens and spoon any remaining butter over top. Drizzle with maple syrup and serve immediately.