Kohlrabi, Purple 'Azur Star'
Azur Star kohlrabi is a unique and vibrant cultivar of the traditional kohlrabi plant, known for its striking blue-purple exterior. This variety belongs to the Brassica family and is prized for its exceptional flavor and eye-catching appearance. The Azur Star kohlrabi stands out in gardens with its smooth, bulbous shape and a skin that ranges from deep blue to purple. Its interior flesh is crisp, succulent, and retains a mild, sweet taste, making it a versatile and enjoyable addition to various culinary dishes.
Cultivating Azur Star kohlrabi requires attention to specific growing conditions. This kohlrabi variety prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall planting. Adequate spacing between plants allows the bulbs to develop fully, ensuring a robust harvest. Azur Star kohlrabi is known for its relatively short growing period, making it a convenient and rewarding choice for home gardeners seeking a visually appealing and tasty addition to their vegetable patches.
In the kitchen, Azur Star kohlrabi can be enjoyed in various ways. The bulbous stem can be peeled and sliced into refreshing matchsticks, adding a delightful crunch to salads or slaws. Alternatively, it can be cooked by roasting, steaming, or sautéing, maintaining its unique flavor and vibrant color. The versatility of Azur Star kohlrabi, coupled with its stunning appearance and delightful taste, makes it a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike, contributing both visual appeal and culinary creativity to diverse dishes.
Cultivating Azur Star kohlrabi requires attention to specific growing conditions. This kohlrabi variety prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It thrives in cool weather, making it an excellent choice for spring and fall planting. Adequate spacing between plants allows the bulbs to develop fully, ensuring a robust harvest. Azur Star kohlrabi is known for its relatively short growing period, making it a convenient and rewarding choice for home gardeners seeking a visually appealing and tasty addition to their vegetable patches.
In the kitchen, Azur Star kohlrabi can be enjoyed in various ways. The bulbous stem can be peeled and sliced into refreshing matchsticks, adding a delightful crunch to salads or slaws. Alternatively, it can be cooked by roasting, steaming, or sautéing, maintaining its unique flavor and vibrant color. The versatility of Azur Star kohlrabi, coupled with its stunning appearance and delightful taste, makes it a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike, contributing both visual appeal and culinary creativity to diverse dishes.
Purple kohlrabi, like other kohlrabi varieties, has specific growing conditions that promote its optimal development. Here are key factors to consider when cultivating purple kohlrabi:
- Temperature: Purple kohlrabi thrives in cool to moderate temperatures. It is well-suited for spring and fall planting. This vegetable prefers temperatures between 40°F to 75°F (4°C to 24°C) for optimal growth. It is essential to avoid extreme heat, as high temperatures can lead to a decline in quality and flavor.
- Sunlight: Kohlrabi, including the purple variety, benefits from full sun exposure. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to encourage robust growth. However, purple kohlrabi can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates, where some protection from intense afternoon sun may be beneficial.
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is crucial for purple kohlrabi. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and a slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting helps provide essential nutrients.
- Watering: Consistent moisture is essential for kohlrabi, as fluctuations in water supply can result in woody or pithy bulbs. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Spacing: Proper spacing is important for purple kohlrabi plants. Adequate spacing between plants allows the bulbs to develop fully. Typically, plants should be spaced about 4-6 inches apart in rows, depending on the specific variety and local growing conditions.
- Fertilization: Purple kohlrabi benefits from a balanced fertilizer applied during planting or early in the growing season. Regular applications of compost or organic matter can support the kohlrabi's nutrient needs throughout its growth.
- Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for common pests such as aphids and cabbage worms, which can affect kohlrabi plants. Natural remedies or organic insecticides can be used if necessary. Additionally, practicing crop rotation helps prevent the buildup of soilborne diseases.
Purple Kohlrabi Slaw:
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized purple kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and julienned
- 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sunflower seeds or chopped nuts for garnish
- In a large bowl, combine the julienned purple kohlrabi, grated carrot, sliced red cabbage, and chopped cilantro.
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large bowl. Toss the ingredients until the slaw is well-coated with the dressing.
- Allow the purple kohlrabi slaw to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, and it enhances the crispness of the vegetables.
- Before serving, give the slaw a final toss. Garnish with sunflower seeds or chopped nuts if desired.