Turnip Lights

I was researching some Irish based holiday traditions for ideas for my Grandpa for Christmas.  While researching I came across this and had to try it.  Buy a turnip and trim off the root to create a smooth round surface at the bottom.  At the top where they cut off the greens, place your flashlight and trace the outer edge.  With a knife, cut that circle.  Now you just gut your turnip with a spoon like you would a pumpkin.  It is a little difficult at first, but once you start it the kids should be able to do this easily.  Don’t leave it too thick. 

At this point you have two options.  You can carve it like you would a jack-o-lantern, or you can just paint a face or object on it.  I did both.  We liked the painted version much better. 

Now place your turnips on the end of your flashlight.  Viola!  Fun turnip flashlight torches!  The painted turnips seem to glow more than the cut one.  My kids were running all over the living room twirling their flashlights.  It was a huge hit!  The best thing is that turnips are in season and I got mine for a quarter each!  Try it.

What vegetable have you never eaten, not even tried?