Twisted Chinese Turnips

Also known simply as White Radish, and in Japan as Daikon, this popular Asian vegetable bears little resemblance to small, round red radishes found in tossed green salads. Instead, Chinese white radish, or Raphanus sativus to use its scientific name, resembles a large white carrot. While Japanese cooks rely on Daikon's sharp bite to add flavor to relishes and salads, in China it is used more in cooking. Chinese white radish is added to Chinese soups, stir-fries and "red-cooked dishes", where the food is slowly simmered in soy sauce. Turnip Cake made with Chinese white radish is a popular Chinese New Year dish.In addition to Asian recipes, feel free to use Chinese white radish whenever you're looking for a creative alternative to potatoes or turnips. You'll be helping your family get more vitamin C and calcium in their diet.