It might sound like something belonging to Harry Potter, but according to She Loves Veg, the mangelwurzel shouldn’t be ignored any longer as the ‘beast of a vegetable’ tastes ‘delicious’
A gardening expert revealed the identity of a “mammoth vegetable” – one she claims you “never knew you needed” in your life.
While it may sound like something you could expect to see in a Harry Potter film, TikTok account She Loves Veg showcased the uncommon mangelwurzel. Describing the “beast” as she held it aloft, the gardener explained: “It basically sits somewhere in between a beetroot and a sugar beet.”
She continued: “Now, because of that, it has the same kind of flavour as beetroot, but it’s less earthy and is sweeter as it’s nearer a sugar beet.” Today, the once common vegetable is “wildly out of fashion” – something She Loves Veg hopes to change via social media.
She Loves Veg continued: “We want all of you to grow a mangelwurzel because they’re amazing. Not only do you get roots that weigh a tonne, its leaves are edible too.” Those leaves will sit much longer in the field than beetroots’ meaning you get a much longer period in which to pick them, she adds.
Adding further details in her caption, she continued: “Traditionally grown for livestock feed, it’s making a comeback in kitchen gardens for its incredible versatility. Eat it roasted, mashed, or even juiced if you’re feeling adventurous. The greens? Also edible.”
The best way to try this “delicious” treat? “Mangelwurzel Tarte Tatin,” She Loves Veg advises. “It caramelises beautifully and is amazing with feta and walnuts – so get one in your life!”
She Loves Veg closed with a “fun fact”, informing her followers: “In the 19th century, mangelwurzel-growing contests were a thing – think giant veg showdowns! And did I mention it stores like a dream, making it a winter staple for both humans and animals!”
“Mangelwhaaat?” joked one TikTok user in response. “I must grow one next season!” Another enthused: “Saving this for my future veg garden.”
A third hailed: “That would feed a whole village, amazing!” While a fourth person said: Well I never! In 51 years I’ve never heard of a mangelwurzel… I like the sound of it though!”
In response to questions, meanwhile, She Loves Veg advised cooking the mangelwurzel in the same way you wood a beetroot. “Definitely plenty of recipes out there!” she added. Seeds can be purchased from the She Grows Veg website.