Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that is often overlooked in culinary circles.

Celeriac, scientifically known as Apium graveolens var. rapaceum, is a variety of celery cultivated for its edible root.

Unlike the common celery we are familiar with, celeriac is grown specifically for its robust, knobby root rather than its stalks. It has a unique flavor profile that is often described as a combination of celery and parsley, offering a refreshing and earthy taste.

With its distinct flavor and numerous health benefits, celeriac can be a fantastic addition to your diet.

In this article, we will explore the best ways to use celeriac, from preparation to cooking methods and even raw consumption. So, let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of celeriac!

What is Celeriac?

Celeriac is a member of the Apiaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region. It has been used for centuries in various cuisines around the world.

This root, also known as celery root, has a distinctive appearance and flavor. It is a round, knobby vegetable with a rough, brown outer skin.

The root can vary in size, ranging from small to large, and has a creamy-white flesh inside. The outer skin may appear rough and blemished, but it is normal for celeriac and can be easily peeled away to reveal the edible part.

As for the taste, celeriac has a unique flavor profile. It offers a combination of celery and parsley flavors, with a hint of nuttiness.

Some describe it as having a subtle, earthy taste. Its flavor is more pronounced compared to regular celery stalks, and it adds depth and complexity to dishes.

When cooked, celeriac becomes tender and has a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor. It retains a pleasant crispness when eaten raw, adding a refreshing and crunchy element to salads or slaws.

Overall, celeriac root has a distinct appearance with its knobby shape and rough skin. Its taste is a delightful blend of celery, parsley, and nutty flavors, offering a unique culinary experience.

While the root is the main edible part of the plant, the leaves and stems are also used in some culinary preparations.

Celeriac is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy choice for those looking to enhance their nutrient intake.

Nutritional Benefits of Celeriac

Celeriac is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a good source of vitamin K, which is vital for blood clotting and bone health.

Additionally, it contains significant amounts of vitamin C, providing immune-boosting properties.

Celeriac is also rich in minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which contribute to various bodily functions.

How to cook celeriac root

With its knobby appearance and unique flavor profile, this root vegetable holds immense potential in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, celeriac root can bring a delightful twist to your meals.

Let’s explore a range of cooking methods and creative uses for celeriac root, unlocking its true culinary potential.

Roasting Celeriac for Enhanced Flavors

Roasting celeriac brings out its natural sweetness and intensifies its flavors. Start by peeling the root and cutting it into cubes or wedges.

Toss the pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them on a baking sheet.

Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes until the celeriac turns golden brown and tender.

Serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into salads for a delightful crunch.

Creamy Celeriac Puree

Celeriac puree is a wonderful substitute for mashed potatoes. To make this creamy delight, peel and chop the celeriac into small cubes.

Boil the cubes in salted water until tender, then drain and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add butter, cream, or vegetable stock, and blend until smooth.

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Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. This silky puree makes a delectable accompaniment to roasted meats or a base for creamy soups.

Celeriac Remoulade: A Refreshing Salad

Celeriac remoulade is a classic French salad that showcases the root vegetable’s crisp texture and delicate flavor. Start by peeling and julienning the celeriac. Toss it with a dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Optionally, you can add chopped herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of freshness. Serve this refreshing remoulade as a side dish or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.

Celeriac Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Celeriac soup is a comforting and nourishing option, especially during colder months. Begin by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in olive oil until translucent.

Add peeled and cubed celeriac, along with vegetable or chicken broth. Simmer until the celeriac becomes tender, then blend the mixture until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if needed.

Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for an added dimension of flavor. Top with a drizzle of cream and some freshly chopped herbs for an elegant touch.

Celeriac Slaw: A Crispy Twist on Tradition

Instead of using cabbage, try using celeriac as the base for a unique slaw. Peel the celeriac and julienne it into thin strips.

Toss it with a tangy dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. You can also add shredded carrots or apples for additional color and crunch.

This refreshing celeriac slaw pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos and wraps.

Celeriac Fries: A Healthier Indulgence

For a healthier alternative to traditional French fries, celeriac fries offer a satisfying crunch without the excess oil.

Cut the peeled celeriac into matchstick-sized pieces, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, or rosemary.

Spread the seasoned celeriac fries on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Serve these crispy fries as a guilt-free side dish or as a wholesome snack.

You can even air-fry celery roots fries!

Celeriac Gratin: A Rich and Cheesy Delight

Celeriac gratin is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines the earthy taste of celeriac with creamy, melted cheese.

Slice peeled celeriac into thin rounds and blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes to soften. Layer the celeriac slices in a baking dish, alternating with grated cheese such as Gruyère or Parmesan.

Pour a mixture of heavy cream and garlic over the layers, ensuring everything is well-coated. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes until the top turns golden brown and bubbling.

This gratin makes an indulgent side dish for special occasions.

Celeriac Stir-Fry: A Quick and Nutritious Meal

Incorporate celeriac into a vibrant stir-fry for a quick and healthy meal option. Cut peeled celeriac into thin strips or matchsticks.

Heat oil in a wok or skillet and stir-fry the celeriac with an assortment of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Add a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Toss everything together until the celeriac is tender yet still crisp.

Serve this nutritious stir-fry over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

Celeriac Chips: A Light and Crispy Snack

Celeriac chips are a delightful alternative to traditional potato chips. Thinly slice peeled celeriac using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife.

Pat the slices dry to remove excess moisture. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer and fry the celeriac slices in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, or any desired spices like paprika or cayenne pepper.

These homemade celeriac chips make a crunchy and nutritious snack for any time of the day.

Celeriac Stew

Celeriac adds depth and heartiness to stews, making them more substantial and flavorful. Peel and dice celeriac into bite-sized pieces.

In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until softened. Add the celeriac, along with other vegetables, such as potatoes, parsnips, or turnips.

Pour in vegetable or meat broth and simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

Season with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, and adjust the seasoning to taste. This celeriac stew is a comforting and nourishing option for chilly evenings.

How to preserve dried celeriac root

Dried celeriac is not commonly available commercially. Celeriac is primarily consumed in its fresh form, either raw or cooked. However, it is possible to dry celeriac at home using a food dehydrator or by air-drying it.

To make dried celeriac at home, start by peeling and cutting the celeriac into thin slices or small cubes. If using a dehydrator, arrange the celeriac pieces on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them for proper airflow.

Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (around 125°F or 52°C) and allow the celeriac to dry for several hours or until it becomes crisp and brittle.

If air-drying, spread the celeriac pieces on a wire rack or a clean, breathable surface. Place it in a well-ventilated area, preferably with good air circulation. Let the celeriac dry for several days or until it becomes completely dry and crispy.

Once dried, store the celeriac in an airtight container or a sealed bag in a cool, dry place. Properly dried celeriac can be stored for several months.

Dried celeriac can be rehydrated by soaking it in warm water or broth for a few minutes before using it in recipes. It can be added to soups, stews, or sauces to enhance their flavor and texture.

However, it’s worth noting that the drying process may alter the taste and texture of celeriac, so the resulting flavor may differ from fresh celeriac.

While dried celeriac is not commonly available in stores, experimenting with drying it at home can be a fun and creative way to preserve this unique root vegetable and explore new culinary possibilities.

Concluding thoughts

In conclusion, celeriac root holds an array of culinary possibilities. From roasting and pureeing to grating and frying, this versatile vegetable can elevate your dishes with its unique flavor and texture.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish, a creamy puree, or a crispy snack, celeriac root offers a myriad of options to explore in your kitchen.

So, next time you come across this knobby root, embrace its potential and let your culinary creativity flourish!