Celery Root Recipes: The Ultimate Guide to Cooking This Root Vegetable

Right, let's talk celery root. This knobbly, earthy vegetable has been a bit of a mystery to me for years. I'd see it in the shops, looking all a bit…uninspiring. To be honest, it just didn't seem very exciting. But then, I decided to give it a go. And, let me tell you, I was blown away. It's got a mild, nutty flavour that's surprisingly versatile and, once you get past its rough exterior, it's actually really easy to work with.So, I thought, why not share my newfound love for celery root with all of you? This guide is going to cover everything you need to know about this fantastic vegetable, from choosing the right one to preparing it and, of course, the best recipes to try. Let's dive in!

(Part 1) Getting to Know Celery Root

What is Celery Root?

Let's start with the basics. Celery root, also known as celeriac, is actually a bulbous root of the celery plant. It's got a slightly rough exterior and a pale, cream-coloured flesh inside. You know how celery stalks are often used in salads and soups? Well, imagine a similar flavour profile, but with a bit more earthiness and a hint of sweetness. It’s a member of the parsley family, and it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you’re looking for a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet, celery root is definitely worth considering.

Choosing the Perfect Celery Root

Picking the right celery root is key to a delicious outcome. You want a firm, heavy root with smooth, unblemished skin. Think of it like choosing a good apple – you want it to be firm and free of bruises. Avoid any that are soft, mushy, or have any signs of damage. You want a celery root that’s going to be fresh and flavorful. I've learned that the smaller ones tend to be the tastiest, so don't be afraid to choose a smaller one if it looks good.

Storing Celery Root

Once you've got your celery root home, you want to store it properly to keep it fresh. Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. I find that the longer you store it, the more intense its flavour becomes. So, don't be afraid to let it sit in the fridge for a bit before using it!

(Part 2) Preparing Celery Root

Cleaning and Trimming Celery Root

Now, let's get down to business. Celery root can be a bit of a challenge to prep. First, you'll need to scrub the root to remove any dirt. Use a vegetable brush or a clean cloth to give it a good scrub. Then, chop off the top and bottom ends. Now, here comes the tricky part - peeling the root. You can do this with a regular vegetable peeler, but I find a paring knife works better. Just be careful, as celery root can be quite hard. It’s worth holding the root firmly and peeling it slowly and steadily. A bit of patience goes a long way!

Cutting Celery Root

Once you've peeled your celery root, you're ready to cut it. You can slice it into thin rounds, dice it into small cubes, or grate it. I like to grate celery root for salads and soups, as it adds a lovely texture and a subtle flavour. However, if you're planning on roasting it, I recommend cutting it into larger chunks. Just remember, you can always adjust the size of your pieces to suit your recipe.

(Part 3) Celery Root Recipes: A culinary adventure

The Magic of Roasting

Honestly, roasting celery root is a game-changer. It brings out a beautiful sweetness and a satisfyingly crisp exterior. Simply toss your cut celery root with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a preheated oven until tender and golden brown. It’s a simple and delicious side dish, perfect for pairing with any roasted meats or fish. You can also add other aromatics like garlic, rosemary, or thyme for an extra layer of flavor. I find a touch of lemon zest adds a wonderful brightness to the dish.

Celery Root Soup: A Cozy Comfort

If you're craving a comforting and warming soup, look no further than celery root soup. It's so easy to make and so incredibly delicious. You can start with a simple base of celery root, onions, and potatoes, then add herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of nutmeg. It's a great way to use up leftover celery root, and it's perfect for a chilly evening. For a creamier soup, you can blend it with a little milk or cream, or even add a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Celery Root Salad: A Refreshing Twist

Don't be afraid to get creative with celery root salads. It's a wonderful addition to any salad. You can grate it and add it to a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing. Or, try pairing it with roasted vegetables like beets and carrots. I love to make a salad with grated celery root, toasted walnuts, and a creamy goat cheese dressing. It's light, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying.

Celery Root Mash: A Creamy Delight

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to mashed potatoes, celery root mash is the way to go. It's creamy, comforting, and surprisingly delicious. Simply boil the celery root until tender, then mash it with a little butter, milk, and seasonings. You can also add a touch of nutmeg or lemon zest for extra flavor. It's a perfect side dish for any roast or steak. You can even make a celery root gratin by layering it with cheese and cream and baking it in the oven.

(Part 4) Celery Root in Different Cuisines

French Flavours: Celery Root Remoulade

The French have a long and beautiful relationship with celery root. One of their most famous dishes featuring celery root is remoulade. This is a classic French salad dressing, usually made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, herbs, and sometimes capers. It’s a wonderfully tangy and flavorful dressing that pairs perfectly with the subtle sweetness of celery root. You can serve this remoulade as a dressing for a simple celery root salad or use it as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.

German Delights: Celery Root Gratin

In Germany, celery root is often used in gratins. This dish is made by layering thinly sliced celery root with cheese and cream, then baking it until golden brown and bubbly. It’s a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for cold winter evenings. You can use any type of cheese you like for this recipe, but Gruyère, Emmental, or Fontina are all excellent choices.

Italian Inspiration: Celery Root Risotto

Celery root is also finding its way into Italian cuisine. It’s a great addition to risottos, adding a subtle sweetness and a lovely texture. Try making a risotto with celery root, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. It’s a delicious and satisfying dish, perfect for a special occasion. The earthy flavour of the celery root complements the richness of the Parmesan cheese and the umami flavour of the mushrooms.

(Part 5) Cooking with Celery Root: Tips and Tricks

Celery Root and Texture

Remember, celery root has a distinct texture. It can be quite firm, but it softens beautifully when cooked. So, don’t be afraid to cook it a bit longer than you think you need to. The key is to ensure it's tender but not mushy. I find that roasting or braising brings out the best texture in celery root, as it creates a lovely contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, creamy interior.

Celery Root and Flavour

Celery root has a mild, nutty flavour. It’s very versatile and can be paired with a wide range of flavours. For a classic pairing, try adding it to dishes with other root vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. You can also add it to dishes with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. I've found that citrus flavours, like lemon and orange, also work surprisingly well with celery root, adding a bit of brightness to the dish.

Celery Root and Colour

Celery root can turn brown when exposed to air. This is perfectly normal and doesn't affect the taste, but it can make your dish look a bit less appealing. To prevent browning, you can soak the cut celery root in water with a squeeze of lemon juice. This will help to keep it bright and fresh. Another trick is to use a little bit of olive oil to coat the cut surfaces of the celery root. The oil will help to prevent the air from reaching the flesh, thus reducing the browning.

(Part 6) Celery Root: Health Benefits

A nutritional powerhouse

Celery root is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. It's a good source of vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as potassium and fiber. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for your diet. Celery root is a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation, boost your immune system, and even reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

Digestive Health

The high fiber content in celery root can help promote digestive health. Fiber is essential for keeping your digestive system running smoothly and preventing constipation. So, if you're looking to add more fiber to your diet, celery root is a great option.

Blood Sugar Control

Celery root has a low glycemic index, meaning it's unlikely to cause a spike in your blood sugar levels. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes or those who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels. It’s a great alternative to potatoes, which are a higher-glycemic index food.

(Part 7) Celery Root: Beyond the Kitchen

Celery Root in Smoothies

Who knew celery root could be a star in smoothies? It adds a subtle sweetness and a bit of creaminess to smoothies, and it’s a great way to get a healthy dose of nutrients. Try blending it with fruits like berries, bananas, and apples for a delicious and refreshing smoothie. You can even add a little bit of ginger or turmeric for an extra boost of flavour and health benefits.

Celery Root in Bread

Celery root can even be incorporated into bread. It adds a unique flavour and texture to bread, and it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables. Try adding grated celery root to your favourite bread recipe for a healthier and more flavorful loaf. The celery root will add a subtle sweetness and a bit of moisture to the bread.

Celery Root in Pickles

Celery root can also be pickled. It's a surprisingly delicious and unique pickle that's a great addition to any charcuterie board or cheese plate. It’s a crunchy, tart, and slightly sweet pickle that's a perfect balance of flavors. You can make your own celery root pickles using a simple brine of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. The pickles will be ready to eat in a few days.

(Part 8) Celery Root: A Culinary Adventure Awaits

There you have it – a complete guide to celery root. It's a versatile vegetable with a subtle flavour and a wonderful texture. So, next time you're at the market, give celery root a try. You might be surprised by how much you enjoy it! Experiment with different recipes, get creative in the kitchen, and see what culinary adventures await you with this incredible vegetable.

FAQs

1. What does celery root taste like?

   Celery root has a mild, nutty flavour that's a bit sweeter than celery stalks. Some people also describe it as having a slightly earthy taste, similar to parsnips. It's a versatile vegetable that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

2. Is celery root good for you?

   Yes, celery root is packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for your diet.

3. How do you cook celery root?

   Celery root can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, boiling, braising, and sautéing. It can be added to soups, stews, salads, gratins, and even bread.

4. Can you eat celery root raw?

   Yes, you can eat celery root raw, but it’s quite firm and can be a bit tough. It’s best to grate it finely for salads or to add it to smoothies.

5. Where can I buy celery root?

   Celery root is usually found in the produce section of most supermarkets. You can also find it at farmers' markets, especially during the fall and winter months.

I hope you found this guide helpful. Remember, celery root is a versatile and delicious vegetable that's well worth trying. Enjoy your culinary journey!