Ingredients

  • 6 pounds rutabagas, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • 24 whole green cardamom pods
  • 1/2 cup creme fraiche
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • Freshly ground white pepper

Method

  • Place rutabagas in large pot with enough cold water to cover by 1 inch. Add salt and cardamom pods; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer until rutabagas are tender, about 25 minutes.
  • Drain rutabagas; discard cardamom. Working in batches, puree rutabagas in processor. Return puree to pot. Cook over medium heat until dry, stirring, about 5 minutes. Mix in creme fraiche and thyme. Season with salt and white pepper.
  • DO AHEAD: