How do I store fresh kohlrabi?
Written by
Julia Anderson
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.The freshness of kohlrabi will depend on how you process it after harvest. I lost a whole crop once because I did not store them properly. Those limp bulbs taught me the importance of humidity. In the refrigerator, kohlrabi would last only a few days (fresh). However, root cellaring can preserve kohlrabi for months. Freezing kohlrabi will inhibit spoilage, but you risk losing texture. Each method will depend on what you are trying to achieve in your kitchen.
Prep Steps
- Temperature: 36°F (2°C) with 95% humidity
- Remove leaves, leaving 1-inch stems
- Wrap in damp paper towels before bagging
Storage Setup
- Use perforated plastic bags
- Avoid stacking, bulbs bruise easily
- Check weekly for soft spots
Blanching Process
- Boil slices 3 minutes
- Ice bath plunge stops cooking
- Pat dry before freezing
Storage Tips
- Use vacuum-sealed bags
- Label with harvest date
- Portion into 1-cup servings
To restore frozen kohlrabi, simply roast it from the freezer. Coat kohlrabi slices with some olive oil and add to a 425°F oven. Caramelization will disguise changes in texture. My family prefers frozen cubes of kohlrabi in curries compared to fresh kohlrabi. For salads, you want to refrigerate bulb kohlrabi and eat them within approximately 10 days for peak crunch.
Read the full article: How to Grow Kohlrabi: Complete Beginner's Guide
