Turnip seems to have a bad reputation, but I hope this recipe straight from my Irish grandmother will help change that. Mashed turnip is a classic Thanksgiving dish for my family, but we also enjoy it with corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day.

2 large or 3 small turnips or rutabagas
1 stick butter
2 T sugar
salt and pepper to taste

Peel turnip and cut into large cubes. Boil for 30-60 minutes until fork tender. Drain.
Add remaining ingredients to turnip in a bowl and mash by hand. You can whip with an electric beater if desired. This can be made ahead, put in oven proof casserole and reheated before serving.

• sides