Daikon Radish Substitute

Daikon Radish Alternatives

There are different types of daikon radish and also many popular alternatives that can replace it. The most common one used in cooking is white daikon radish but red daikon radish is also available. Other than that, daikon radish can be replaced by any root vegetable like carrot, turnip, parsnip, celery, beetroot, rutabaga, kohlrabi, etc. In summary, there are various ways to use the daikon radish plus also use its replacements.

You may also be interested in our food substations master page plus

Top 10 Daikon Radish Substitutes for 2024

1. Can I Substitute Daikon Radish with White Turnips

White Turnips are probably one of the best substitutes for daikon radishes.  In addition, they have a similar but milder taste and a texture almost the same. You can also use the turnip greens in your alternative recipe also.

They are also a great source of fiber, potassium, vitamin C, iron, folate, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, copper and zinc. They are also rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients.

How To Substitute Daikon Radish in Kimchi
How To Substitute Daikon Radish in Kimchi

2. Jicama Is a Good Alternative for Daikon Radish

The jicama vegetable and root is high in fiber and has a crisp texture. It is usually peeled before eating, but if you want to enjoy it raw, just wash it well under running water. It has other names like the Mexican potato or yam. Again the taste and texture are not dissimilar. The most common use is in salads where it gives a nutty if not sweetish taste to the recipe.

Jicama has a crisp, crunchy texture similar to celery but it tastes like a cross between a cucumber and water chestnut. It’s high in fiber and potassium, making it a great snack option

Normal Radish vs Daikon Radish
Normal Radish vs Daikon Radish

3. Can I Substitute Normal Radishes for A Daikon Radish

Yes, you can use normal or red radishes as a replacement for the harder-to-find daikon radish. Radishes are one of the most versatile vegetables out there. They’re incredibly easy to grow at home, they don’t require any special soil, and they’re delicious eaten raw or cooked. Plus, radishes come in all different colors, from red to white to purple. You can use them in cooked or raw dishes, but they work great in salads.

4. Can I Substitute Daikon Radish with Parsnips

Parsnips are another root vegetable that’s perfect for winter and also as a substitute for the Daikon  They’re sweet and nutty, so they pair well with many dishes – especially stews and casseroles. The only downside is that parsnips take a long time to mature, which means they won’t be available right away if you want them fresh.

5. Can I Substitute Cabbage Hearts for Daikon Radish

The cabbage heart is often described as “a vegetable version of a candy bar.” It contains a mild-flavored leaf and as a result, is not as strong as the radish. However, it has a similar texture when finely chopped and can be used in many ways like its cousin.

Cabbage hearts are available year-round but they are most abundant during the fall months. They are best when harvested young, before their leaves turn yellow. Cabbage hearts should be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to two weeks.

7. Can I Substitute Horseradish Root for Daikon Radish

This root is commonly used in North America as a condiment for hot dogs and hamburgers. You can substitute Horseradish for Daikon Radish as it has a pepper flavor that is quite strong. You will not need as much of it. It’s also found in many sauces and dressings — try it in place of wasabi.

8. Chesnuts

In soups and stuffing the water chestnut is a good alternative for the daikon radish. 

Their flavor is not too strong but they still have some nutty flavor.

9. Carrots Are a Good Substitute For Daikon Radish

A carrot is a good alternative for people that want the texture but not the taste of the strong radish. Carrots are popular as most people will have some at home and they are easy to grow. Plus, you can eat them raw or cooked!

What if I don’t like carrots?

If you don’t like carrots then you can use any other root vegetable such as beetroot , turnip, parsnips, rutabaga, swede, celeriac, kohlrabi, sweet potato etc. You could also try using a different type of leafy green vegie such as spinach, kale or chard.

10. Beetroot Can Be Used As A Substitute for Daikon Radish

Beetroot Can Be used as a substitute for Daikon Radishes.

You can find fresh beetroots year round, but they are most abundant during the summer months. They are available from supermarkets and farmers markets.

To prepare beetroot, simply wash and chop into small pieces. Add to a salad, soup, stir fry, or any dish where you would normally add daikon radish.

Beets are packed with antioxidants and nutrients like vitamins C, B6, and potassium.

An Overview of Daikon Radish

The daikon radish has a mild flavor similar to water chestnuts. It’s rich in potassium, vitamins C and B6, folic acid, pantothenic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, zinc, and iron.

What is a Daikon Radish?

Daikon radish is a type of Asian root vegetable that resembles a large white carrot. They’re often used in stir-fries, salads, soups, and pickles. (Can you freeze pickles)

Why Replace Daikon Radish?

The main benefit of replacing daikon radishes is that they can be a little strong in taste and are hard to find. Using a more common vegetable or substitute is often done.

What does daikon taste like

Daikon radish has a mild flavor similar to another radish, but it’s not quite so watery. If you’re used to eating regular radishes, you might find yourself craving some daikon radishes at first. But after a few days, I think most people will start preferring the flavor over the texture.  I prefer a good carrot.

What can I substitute for daikon radish in kimchi?

You can replace daikon radish with white turnip greens, red cabbage, or Chinese mustard greens. These vegetables are available year-round, and they are delicious when cooked with other ingredients. They will work well in kimchi.

 What is the Difference Between The Daikon Radish and A Regular Radish?

The Daikon radish vs the normal radish – Normal Radishes are smaller and the shape is not the same either.  With regards to taste, the Daikon Radish is typically a little sweeter. They taste like a root vegetable however.