Irresistible Kohlrabi Schnitzel Recipe – A Crispy & Healthy Twist on a Classic

Irresistible Kohlrabi Schnitzel Recipe – A Crispy & Healthy Twist on a Classic

Yield: 2

Discover this irresistible Kohlrabi Schnitzel recipe – a lighter, plant-based twist on the classic schnitzel. Crispy, golden, and packed with nutrients, it’s the perfect healthy comfort food.

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Ingredients

• 1 large (400g) kohlrabi
• frying oil

Egg replacement

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp paprika powder
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt

Breading

• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
• 1/2 tsp paprika powder
• 1 tsp crushed pumpkin seeds
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Take any additional leaves off the kohlrabi and wash them. Peel off the outer layer with a veggie peeler. And cut the kohlrabi in 4-6 slices (about 1/3 inch).
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the kohlrabi slices. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. They should start to get translucent in the center. Then drain, place them on paper towels to remove excess water, and set aside to cool off.
3. In a bowl, mix the ingredients for the egg replacement. It should have an egg-like consistency, you might have to add more water or flour to achieve that.
4. In another bowl, combine the ingredients for the breading.
5. When the kohlrabi slices are cold enough to handle, dip them first in the egg replacement, then coat them in the breading.
6. In a large pan, heat the frying oil (the bottom should be covered with oil) and add in the breaded Kohlrabi Schnitzel. Fry them on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side. They should be golden and crispy on both sides.
7. After frying, put them on a paper towel to remove excess oil and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 203Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 909mgCarbohydrates: 26gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 5g

When you think of schnitzel, your mind probably jumps straight to the golden, crispy breaded cutlet made famous in Austria and Germany. Traditionally prepared with veal, pork, or chicken, schnitzel has long been a staple of Central European cuisine. But what if you could enjoy the same satisfying crunch, delicious flavour, and comforting bite—without the meat? Enter the Kohlrabi Schnitzel: a wholesome, plant-based spin on the timeless classic.

A Quick Look at Schnitzel’s Origins

The word “schnitzel” comes from the German word “Schnitt,” meaning “slice.” Its roots trace back to the 19th century in Austria, where the famous Wiener Schnitzel (Viennese schnitzel) was first documented. Traditionally, thin cuts of veal were pounded, breaded, and fried to golden perfection. Over time, schnitzel spread across Europe, with each region adding its own variations—some substituting veal for pork or chicken, while others experimented with various toppings and sauces. Today, schnitzel is beloved worldwide, not just as comfort food but as a dish that adapts to new culinary trends.

That adaptability is what makes the Kohlrabi Schnitzel so exciting. Instead of meat, slices of fresh kohlrabi are the star of the show—bringing crunch, freshness, and a healthy twist to an old favourite.

What Exactly Is Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi (pronounced coal-RAH-bee) is a bulb-shaped vegetable from the brassica family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, and kale. Its name comes from the German words kohl (cabbage) and rübe (turnip), reflecting its unique cross between the two. With a mild, slightly sweet flavor and crisp texture, kohlrabi is incredibly versatile. It can be eaten raw in salads, roasted, mashed, or—as in this recipe—breaded and fried into golden schnitzels.

Kohlrabi is also a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Its antioxidant content makes it excellent for immune support, while the fiber keeps you fuller for longer and promotes healthy digestion.

Why Kohlrabi Schnitzel Is Healthy Comfort Food

Traditional schnitzels, while delicious, can be heavy. Using kohlrabi instead of meat offers a lighter, nutrient-packed alternative without sacrificing texture or taste. Here are a few reasons why Kohlrabi Schnitzel deserves a spot on your table:

• Low in Calories, High in Nutrients – Kohlrabi provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants without the heaviness of fried meats.

• Plant-Based Goodness – A perfect dish for vegetarians, vegans (with egg-free breading), or anyone reducing their meat intake.

• Fiber-Rich – Great for digestion and maintaining energy levels.

• Immune Boosting – Thanks to its vitamin C content, kohlrabi helps support overall wellness.

Fun Facts About Kohlrabi

• Kohlrabi has been cultivated in Europe for centuries and is especially popular in Germany and Austria, where it often finds its way into hearty home cooking.

• Despite its cabbage-turnip name, it doesn’t taste like either—its flavor is milder, with a refreshing crunch often compared to a mix of apple and broccoli stem.

• Kohlrabi leaves are edible too! They’re nutrient-rich and can be sautéed like spinach or kale.

• In recent years, kohlrabi has gained popularity among athletes and health-conscious eaters thanks to its hydration-boosting potassium content.

Bringing It All Together

Kohlrabi Schnitzel is proof that comfort food can be both indulgent and nourishing. With its crispy breadcrumb coating, tender bite, and subtly sweet flavour, it delivers everything people love about schnitzel—without the heaviness. Whether you serve it with a side of lemon wedges, a crisp salad, or traditional potato dishes, this schnitzel variation is bound to become a favourite.

So next time you’re craving something crunchy, satisfying, and wholesome, try this Irresistible Kohlrabi Schnitzel. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of tradition, creativity, and healthy eating all in one bite.