To use celery root (also known as celeriac), first clean and peel its tough, knobby exterior with a sharp chef’s knife. Once peeled, its firm, ivory-colored flesh can be enjoyed raw, roasted, mashed, pureed into soups, or incorporated into various dishes, offering a distinct earthy, nutty flavor with hints of celery.
This often-overlooked root vegetable transforms everyday meals into something special. Discover simple techniques to prepare and cook celery root, adding a unique, wholesome ingredient to your culinary repertoire.
How to Prepare Celery Root for Cooking
Preparing celery root involves cleaning, peeling, and then cutting it into your desired shape. Its skin is tough and bumpy, requiring a sharp knife for effective removal.
- Clean the Root: Scrub the celery root thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. An old toothbrush can help clean crevices.
- Trim Ends: Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice off the top and bottom quarters of the celery root to create flat, stable surfaces.
- Peel the Skin: Stand the celery root upright on a flat end. Carefully cut away the thick, knobby outer skin in vertical strips, following the root’s natural curve. A sharp chef’s knife works best, as a vegetable peeler may struggle with its irregular surface.
- Prevent Browning: Celery root oxidizes quickly once peeled. Place cut pieces in a bowl of cold water with a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
You can save the trimmings to add flavor to homemade vegetable stocks.
How to Cook Celery Root: Versatile Culinary Uses
Celery root is incredibly versatile, offering a mild, nutty, and earthy flavor. It can be a low-carb alternative to potatoes in many recipes.
Roasting Celery Root
Roasting brings out celery root’s inherent sweetness and creates a tender interior with slightly caramelized edges. This method is straightforward and delicious.
- Peel and cut the celery root into 1-inch cubes or wedges.
- Toss the pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Roast at 400-425°F (200-220°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until fork-tender and lightly browned.
Mashing Celery Root
Mashed celery root offers a lighter, lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. It has a similar creamy texture with a unique flavor.
- Peel and chop celery root into uniform pieces.
- Boil the pieces in salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain well and mash with a potato masher or fork.
- Stir in butter, a splash of cream or milk, salt, and pepper to taste.
Soups and Stews with Celery Root
Celery root adds a subtle depth and earthy sweetness to soups and stews. It can be diced and simmered with other vegetables and proteins.
- Add chopped celery root to vegetable or meat stews for extra body and flavor.
- Simmer in creamy soups, like a leek and celery root soup, for a velvety texture.
Celery Root Puree
A silky celery root puree makes an elegant side dish. It pairs well with roasted meats or fish.
- Boil or steam peeled and chopped celery root until very soft.
- Blend the cooked celery root with a little cooking liquid, milk, or cream until smooth.
- Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Raw Celery Root Applications
Enjoying celery root raw provides a refreshing crunch and a brighter, more pronounced celery-like flavor.
- Salads: Grate raw celery root into slaws or salads. It pairs wonderfully with apples, walnuts, and a vinaigrette.
- Crudités: Cut into sticks and serve with dips for a healthy snack.
Chef Alice Waters, a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, often emphasizes using whole ingredients. She highlights the versatility of root vegetables like celery root, noting that “the best cooking starts with the best ingredients, and often the simplest preparations let those ingredients shine.”
Health Benefits of Celery Root
Celery root is a nutritious vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is also low in calories.
- Rich in Vitamin K: Celery root is an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. Studies suggest vitamin K may reduce the risk of fractures.
- Good Source of Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants that fight harmful free radicals, potentially protecting against conditions like heart disease and cancer. These compounds include phenolic acids and flavonoids.
- High in Potassium: Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health. Higher potassium intake is linked to a lower stroke risk.
- Supports Digestion: The dietary fiber in celery root aids digestive health.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Celery root contains compounds with anti-inflammatory effects.
For instance, a 2017 review highlighted that celery, including its root, contains compounds like caffeic acid and apigenin, which contribute to its powerful antioxidant characteristics.
Expert Tips for Selecting and Storing Celery Root
Choosing and storing celery root properly ensures the best flavor and longevity.
- Selection: Look for celery roots that are firm and feel heavy for their size. Avoid those with soft spots, blemishes, or excessive sprouting. A greenish blush indicates freshness.
- Storage: Store unpeeled celery root in the refrigerator. Place it in an unsealed plastic bag with a dry paper towel to absorb moisture. It can last for up to three weeks.
- After Peeling: Once peeled or cut, use celery root quickly to prevent browning. If not using immediately, submerge it in acidulated water (water with lemon juice).
“Treat celery root like a prize,” advises Chef Jacques Pépin. “Its subtle complexity deserves careful handling, from selection to prep. Always choose a firm, unblemished root; it’s a sign of quality.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Celery Root
What is celery root?
Celery root, or celeriac, is a knobby root vegetable. It is not the root of common stalk celery but a different variety. It has an earthy, nutty, and slightly celery-like flavor.
Can you eat celery root raw?
Yes, celery root can be eaten raw. It has a crisp texture and a fresh, bright flavor when raw. Grate it into salads or thinly slice it for crudités.
How do you peel celery root easily?
Peel celery root by first trimming its top and bottom. Then, use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully slice away the tough outer skin in vertical strips.
Is celery root a low-carb alternative to potatoes?
Yes, celery root is an excellent low-carb alternative to potatoes. It can be mashed, roasted, or pureed similarly to potatoes, offering a comparable texture with fewer carbohydrates.
How long does celery root last in the refrigerator?
Whole, unpeeled celery root can last up to three weeks in the refrigerator. Store it in an unsealed plastic bag to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Celery root, despite its humble appearance, is a culinary gem that offers incredible versatility and significant nutritional benefits. From hearty roasted dishes to light, refreshing salads, mastering how to use this root vegetable opens up a world of flavorful possibilities in your kitchen. Embrace its earthy charm and elevate your cooking.
