Skip to main content

Glazed Hakurei Turnips

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These glazed hakurei turnips are a sophisticated yet simple vegetarian side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of baby root vegetables. By gently simmering the turnips in a mixture of butter, sugar, and water, you create a glossy, savoury-sweet lacquer that coats every surface. This classic glazing technique transforms the humble turnip into a melt-in-the-mouth delicacy that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses.

Using the reserved greens ensures zero waste and adds a vibrant, peppery contrast to the rich, buttery glaze. This recipe is particularly well-suited for a traditional Sunday roast or a light spring lunch, offering a fresh alternative to standard roasted vegetables. For the best flavour, look for smaller, firm turnips which tend to be more tender and have a delicate, creamy texture.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Glazed Hakurei Turnips

  • 3 bunches baby hakurei turnips, baby turnips, or red radishes (about 900g ), trimmed, greens reserved

  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter

  • 3 tablespoons sugar

  • Kosher salt

How to make Glazed Hakurei Turnips

Back to contents

Place turnips in a large skillet; add water to cover turnips halfway. Add butter, sugar, and a large pinch of salt; bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is syrupy and turnips are tender, about 15 minutes. (if turnips are tender before liquid has reduced, use a slotted spoon to transfer turnips to a plate and reduce liquid until syrupy. Return turnips to pan and stir to coat well.) DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm before continuing.

Add turnip greens to skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until just wilted, 2-3 minutes. Season with salt.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.