You can buy celery root, also known as celeriac, at various retail locations across the United States. Your best bets are large supermarkets with well-stocked produce sections, specialty grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and online grocery delivery services. It is commonly found near other root vegetables.
Finding celery root might seem challenging, but it’s readily available once you know where to look. This versatile root vegetable adds a unique, earthy flavor to many dishes. Let’s explore the most reliable sources to purchase this nutritious ingredient.
Where to Buy Celery Root at Major Grocery Stores
Major grocery store chains are a primary source for buying celery root. Many national and regional supermarkets carry celery root in their produce departments, especially during its peak season.
Look for celery root nestled among other hearty root vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, and turnips. Stores such as Whole Foods Market, Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Meijer frequently stock celeriac. Always check the organic sections too, as it’s often available there.
Availability can vary by specific store location and current inventory levels. Some stores, like Kroger, offer celery root for both in-store shopping and online pickup or delivery.
Where to Purchase Celery Root at Specialty and Ethnic Markets
Specialty grocery stores and ethnic markets often feature a wider array of unique produce, including celery root. These stores cater to diverse culinary needs and are excellent places to find less common ingredients.
European markets, for example, frequently carry celery root due to its popularity in European cuisine. Asian markets might also offer it, depending on their selection of root vegetables. Fairway Markets in the NYC area are known to carry it.
These markets are invaluable for sourcing high-quality, sometimes organic, celery root. The staff at specialty stores can often provide insights on seasonality and preparation.
Where to Find Celery Root at Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are ideal for purchasing fresh, seasonal celery root directly from local growers. You can often find celery root at farmers’ markets during its peak season, which runs from fall through early spring.
Buying from a farmers’ market ensures you get the freshest possible produce. You can also ask farmers about their growing practices. This direct connection offers transparency and supports local agriculture.
Celery root may be labeled as celeriac or celery knob by local vendors. Look for firm, heavy roots without soft spots for the best quality.
Where to Buy Celery Root Online for Delivery
Online grocery delivery services provide a convenient way to purchase celery root from the comfort of your home. Several platforms offer fresh produce delivery across the US.
Services like Amazon Fresh, FreshDirect, and Misfits Market often include celery root in their selection. Misfits Market, for instance, focuses on rescuing “misfit” produce, offering organic celery root that might not meet conventional aesthetic standards but is perfectly delicious.
Always check the delivery area and availability on these platforms. Online shopping allows you to compare prices and check for organic options easily.
Here is a comparison of common places to buy celery root:
| Buying Location | Typical Availability | Freshness/Quality | Convenience | Price Range (per pound, USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major Supermarkets | Year-round, with peak in fall-spring | Good, often conventional or organic | High (widespread stores, delivery/pickup) | $2.00 – $6.00 |
| Specialty Grocers | High, often consistent availability | Excellent, unique varieties possible | Moderate (fewer locations) | $3.00 – $7.00 |
| Farmers’ Markets | Seasonal (fall-early spring) | Excellent (local, freshly harvested) | Low (limited hours, locations) | $2.50 – $6.50 |
| Online Retailers | Year-round, depending on service | Good to Excellent (often organic options) | Very High (home delivery) | $3.00 – $7.00 |
How to Select and Store Fresh Celery Root
Selecting the right celery root ensures optimal flavor and texture. Proper storage helps maintain its freshness for longer durations.
How to Select Celery Root
Choose firm celery roots that feel heavy for their size. Avoid any with soft spots, bruising, or a shriveled appearance, as these indicate decay or age. Look for smaller to medium-sized bulbs, roughly 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Larger ones can sometimes be woody or hollow in the center. If the stalks are still attached, they should look fresh and green.
As culinary expert Elizabeth Schneider notes, while its appearance can be “gnarly,” cutting away the exterior reveals a creamy, flavorful interior.
How to Store Celery Root
Store unpeeled celery root in a cool, dark place or loosely wrapped in a plastic bag in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. It can last for several weeks. If stalks are attached, snap them off before storing to extend the root’s shelf life.
Once peeled and cut, celery root oxidizes quickly, similar to an apple. Submerge peeled or cut pieces in water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Nutritional Benefits of Celery Root (Celeriac)
Celery root offers a host of impressive nutritional benefits. It is a nutrient-dense root vegetable. It makes a great addition to a healthy diet.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Celery root is high in fiber, vitamins B6, C, and K. It also provides essential minerals like phosphorus, potassium, and manganese.
- Antioxidant Properties: It contains antioxidants that fight harmful free radicals. These compounds protect healthy cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Digestive Health: The fiber content in celery root aids digestion. It promotes regularity and feeds beneficial gut bacteria. As dietitian Teresa Fung notes, “Root vegetables are still fresh whole foods that contain many vitamins and minerals.”
- Bone Health: Celery root is a good source of phosphorus and vitamin K, crucial for strong bones. Vitamin K helps with calcium absorption and prevents bone loss.
“Root vegetables are nutrient-dense sources of fiber and resistant starch that support the growth of beneficial bacteria in our guts,” states Nutrivore, highlighting their overall health impact.
FAQ About Celery Root
What is celery root also known as?
Celery root is also widely known as celeriac. Other less common names include celery knob or turnip celery.
Is celery root the same as regular celery?
No, celery root is not the root of the celery stalks we commonly eat. They are related plants from the same species (Apium graveolens), but celeriac (Apium graveolens var. rapaceum) is specifically cultivated for its edible root.
When is celery root in season?
Celery root is available year-round in many places, but its peak season is generally from the fall through early spring. This is when it is freshest and most abundant.
How should I prepare celery root?
Celery root needs to be peeled before eating due to its rough, knobby exterior. Use a sharp knife to remove the brown skin and any fibrous parts to reveal the creamy white flesh. It can be eaten raw, roasted, pureed, sautéed, or boiled.
Can you eat celery root raw?
Yes, you can eat celery root raw. It is delicious grated into salads or slaws, offering a crisp texture and mild, earthy, celery-like flavor. Remember to peel it first.
Conclusion
Finding celery root for your culinary adventures is simpler than it seems. From the well-stocked aisles of major supermarkets to the unique offerings of specialty grocers and the fresh bounty of farmers’ markets, you have several reliable options. Don’t overlook the convenience of online delivery services for this versatile and nutritious root vegetable. By knowing where and how to select and store it, you can consistently enjoy the earthy, subtle flavor of celery root in your kitchen.
