Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable that can be enjoyed in various ways. One interesting and delicious way to prepare celeriac is by smoking it to create a steak-like texture and flavor. In this article, we will explore the taste of celeriac, how to select and store it, its health benefits, and different ways to use it in your cooking.
What Does Celeriac Taste Like?
Celeriac has a mild celery flavor with a refreshing crunch when raw. When cooked, it develops a subtle undertone of sweetness. If you enjoy the flavors of radishes, turnips, and potatoes, you will likely enjoy celeriac in both its raw and cooked forms.
How to Select and Store Celeriac
When choosing celeriac, look for a firm root that feels heavy for its size and does not have any soft or bruised patches. The outer skin of celeriac is often crusted with soil, so make sure to wash it thoroughly before cooking. Store celeriac in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, uncut and in its original state, to maintain its freshness for up to a couple of weeks.
Health Benefits of Celeriac
Celeriac is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. When consumed raw, it is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin B6, vitamin C, phosphorous, magnesium, and calcium. It is low in carbs and high in fiber, making it a heart-healthy and gut-friendly addition to your diet. Additionally, celeriac is naturally low in fat, making it a nutritious and refreshing choice for your meals.
How to Prepare Celeriac for Cooking
To prepare celeriac, start by slicing off both the top and bottom of the root. Then, remove the thick outer skin, following the line where it ends and the tender flesh begins. Once peeled, celeriac can be grated, cut into batons or cubes, or diced, depending on your recipe.
Uses for Celeriac
Celeriac can be used in a variety of dishes. When raw, it provides excellent crunch and is ideal for salads, such as celeriac rémoulade. Boiled or steamed, it can be pureed to add creamy texture to soups or sauces. Roasted, it becomes browned and crisp on the edges, developing a sweeter flavor. It can also be used in gratins and mashed dishes, often combined with potatoes for added texture. Additionally, celeriac retains its crunch when cooked quickly, making it suitable for stir-fries and sautés. Lastly, it can be pickled on its own or with other vegetables.
What is Celeriac Called in America?
In America, celeriac is commonly known as celery root, turnip-rooted celery, or knob celery. It is a large, bumpy, brown vegetable that is harvested in the winter. It is popular in German and northern European cuisines and can be found in various cuisines around the world.
Flavors That Pair Well with Celeriac
Celeriac has a unique aroma profile that pairs well with a range of ingredients. It shares floral-rose aromas with strawberries and floral-honey notes with chocolate. It also has mint-like scents that link it to blackberries, grapefruit, guava, basil, and more. Celeriac's flavor profile also includes hints of vanilla and roasted notes, making it a versatile ingredient that can be paired with various fruits, vegetables, meats, and even desserts.
Celeriac is a versatile and flavorful root vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you choose to smoke it to create a steak-like dish or use it in salads, soups, or roasted dishes, celeriac is sure to add a unique and delicious flavor to your meals. With its health benefits and ability to pair well with a variety of ingredients, celeriac is definitely worth exploring in your cooking. So go ahead, give smoked celeriac steak a try and discover the wonders of this unsung hero of the root vegetable world!
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