Traditional Finnish Turnip Casserole

Enjoy a taste of Finland with this hearty turnip casserole recipe. Made with fresh turnips and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is comforting and perfect for colder nights. The turnips are cooked to tender perfection, and the addition of bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor. Serve this casserole as a main course or as a side dish alongside roasted meats. It's a crowd-pleaser that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized turnips
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of milk
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Peel and dice the turnips into small cubes. Place them in a pot of boiling water and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble it into small pieces. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and translucent.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the cooked turnips and crumbled bacon to the cheese sauce, and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, if desired.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

Interesting Facts