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How To Make Parsnip Mash

Parsnip mash is a great alternative to mashed potato. The sweetness of parsnips, combined with the lower starch content than potatoes, make them the perfect vegetable to turn into tasty, velvety smooth mash. 

parnsip mash in large saucepan

How To Make Parsnip Mash

You could make the mash with just parsnips. However, adding in a few extras will produce a smoother and creamier texture, as well as enhance the flavour. If you add in a few knobs of butter, as well as some milk or cream, you’ll get a silky smooth result.

Ingredients 

  • Parsnips – use around 800g-1kg for 4 servings.
  • Butter or margarine
  • Milk or cream
  • Seasoning
  • Optional extras – parsnip mash tastes amazing with (cooked) apple, chilli flakes or cinnamon.

Step 1 

Peel the parsnips and chop them up.

chopped parsnips on a chopping board

Step 2 

Add the chopped parsnips into a large saucepan of salted water.

chopped parsnips in a saucepan of salt water

Step 3

Drain the water and mash the parsnips, stirring in the butter and milk (or cream)

parsnip mash with butter and milk

Just add the milk (or cream) gradually until the mash is at the consistency and texture that you prefer. Don’t pour it all in at once as it might become too watery.

Serve the mash as a tasty side dish to your favourite meal. We quite like having it with Swedish Meatballs!

swedish meatballs and parsnip mash

Swedish meatballs and parsnip mash is one of our favourites!

Is Parsnip Mash The Same As Parsnip Puree?

Yes it is very similar, and it is a great weaning food for babies, or as a side dip.

I would say that parsnip puree differs slightly from parsnip mash in that I would use a blender to get the cooked parsnips pureed into a really smooth texture as opposed to a potato masher to turn it into parsnip mash. 

If you are making parsnip puree for babies you can just boil the parsnips in plain water (no salt) and blend them afterwards without seasoning or adding in any extras – so all you are serving in the puree are parsnips and water. Alternatively, you can steam the parsnips instead of boiling them. 

Use a hand blender or food processor to get a really smooth and lump free parsnip puree. You can use some of the water that the parsnips were boiled in to help blend them up. 

Can You Freeze Parsnip Mash?

Yes you can freeze parsnip mash. This is especially useful if you are making parsnip puree for baby weaning and food. Just divide it up into appropriate serving sizes (you can use ice cube trays, or other freezer safe food containers for this), wait for it to cool down and then put it in the freezer. Remember to mark the containers with necessary dates.  

parsnip mash with butter and milk

Parsnip Mash

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Parsnip mash is a delicious side dish that is perfect to enjoy alongside your favourite meal.

Ingredients

  • 800g-1kg parsnips (reduce or increase accordingly)
  • 80g butter or margarine
  • 100ml milk or cream
  • Seasoning

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop the parsnips.
  2. Put the parsnips in a large saucepan and cover them with water and a few pinches of salt.
  3. Bring the water to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Leave to cook for 10 to 15 minutes, until tender. Don't let them overcook and turn to mush.
  4. Drain the water away and use a potato masher to mash the parsnips up. If you are making a parnsip puree you can put the parsnips in a blender, food processor or use a hand blender.
  5. Stir in the butter and milk/cream. Only add a little bit of milk/cream at a time, adding more until the mash is a the consistency you like.
  6. Add in any seasoning as desired to taste.

Notes

Optional Extras

Add in a peeled and chopped Bramley apple with the parsnips when you boil them.

Stir in some chilli flakes at the end for a little bit of a spicy kick.

Stir in some cinnamon for a warming spice twist.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 360Total Fat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 264mgCarbohydrates: 44gFiber: 9gSugar: 12gProtein: 5g

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Susan J

Sunday 6th of March 2022

Wow, am impressed. Only roasted parnsips before. This mash is to die for. Defo one to make over and over again.

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