Buy Kohlrabi in the UK: Where, How Much and What to Do With It

If you’ve never seen a kohlrabi before, it’s that round, green‑white veggie that looks like a cabbage‑stem hybrid. It’s crunchy, mildly sweet and works in salads, stir‑fries, or even raw as a snack. In the UK it’s becoming easier to spot, but you still need to know the right places to grab the freshest heads without overpaying.

Where to Find Kohlrabi Near You

The quickest way is to hit the big supermarket chains – Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda usually have kohlrabi in the produce aisle during the cooler months (October to March). Look for firm, glossy skins and avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots. If you want a better price, check the weekly flyers; supermarkets often discount seasonal veg on certain days.

Farmers’ markets are another gold mine. Markets in London, Manchester and Birmingham often showcase locally grown kohlrabi straight from the field. Prices can be a bit higher than supermarkets, but you get fresher stock and the chance to ask the grower about the variety. Plus, buying direct supports local agriculture.

Online grocery services are catching up fast. Websites like Ocado, Farmdrop and Fresh Direct let you filter by vegetable and will list kohlrabi when it’s in season. Expect delivery fees, but you’ll avoid the hassle of a store trip. Some specialty veg boxes even include kohlrabi as a surprise item, giving you a chance to try it without searching.

How Much Does Kohlrabi Cost?

Price can swing based on season and where you buy it. In supermarkets you’ll usually pay around £0.70 to £1.20 per kilogram. Farmers’ markets might be £1.00 to £1.50 per kilogram, reflecting the premium of fresh, locally sourced produce. Online orders often sit at the middle of that range, though promotions can drop the price further.

When comparing prices, factor in the weight. A typical kohlrabi weighs 300‑500 g, so a single head from a supermarket may cost about 30‑60 p. If you buy a bunch online, the per‑head cost could be lower because of bulk pricing.

Don’t forget to watch for “value packs” – some retailers bundle three or four heads for a set price. That’s a smart way to stock up for the winter when the veggie stays fresh for weeks if stored properly.

Storing kohlrabi is simple: keep it in the vegetable drawer of your fridge, wrapped in a damp paper towel to retain moisture. It will stay crisp for up to three weeks. If you notice the leaves starting to wilt, cut them off – the bulb stays good.

Finally, a quick recipe to get you started: slice kohlrabi thin, toss with olive oil, lemon juice, a pinch of salt and pepper, then roast at 200°C for 20‑25 minutes. The result is a caramel‑sweet side dish that pairs well with grilled meat or fish.

Whether you shop in‑store, at a market or order online, knowing when and where to buy kohlrabi makes the process hassle‑free and budget‑friendly. Grab a few heads, store them right, and enjoy this crunchy veggie all winter long.