Preheat oven to 400. 

Wash and peel turnips.

With a sharp knife, carefully cut into turnip, making thin and even cuts that do not go completely through.

Place in oven proof pan, with each turnip on the pan's surface.

Sprinkle paprika on each cut surface, and then lightly salt and pepper.

Cover the bottom of the pan with oil or butter. Baste every 15 minutes or so. 

Bake for 1 hour or until turnip is easily pierced with a knife.