Celeriac – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What is celeriac?

Celeriac (also known as celery root) is literally the root of the celery plant. It’s also sometimes known as knob celery and turnip-rooted celery. Like many root vegetables, it is not particularly attractive on the surface, but it is packed with nutrients. Similar in texture to a potato or turnip, it has an earthy taste and even has a little hint of celery flavoring.

Although celeriac and celery have the same origins (Apium graveolens), they have radically different textures and tastes.

Despite its origins in ancient times, it is often overlooked and underrated today. Because it’s not a native American vegetable, many chefs are less familiar with it. However, it is delicious, nutritious, versatile, economical, filling, and relatively easy to find.

Celeriac can be a low-carb alternative to potatoes or even mixed with potatoes for a hearty dish. It may be sold with the stalk and leaves attached. Those parts can be separated from the bulb itself and, like other greens, be cooked in butter and served as a side dish. Celeriac leaves can also be chopped and added to dishes in the same way one would use celery leaves or parsley.

Celeriac can be eaten raw, added to salads, or cooked in a wide variety of ways. Its unique taste can overpower salads, so mixing it with other fresh produce ingredients is key. Carrots, beets, and even apples are popular choices. When cooked, it can be shredded and boiled or mashed with other root vegetables or on its own. It is a great ingredient for hearty soups and an attractive accompaniment to all types of proteins.

The bulbs range in size from that of an apple to a small canteloupe. They have a knobby brown exterior, which is removed before cooking with a paring knife. A vegetable peeler is not strong enough to strip the exterior.

Where did celeriac originate from?

Celeriac’s roots date back to ancient times. It was first mentioned in the English language in the 1700s. However, it is one of the oldest root vegetables known to civilization. It was eaten by ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, who used it for religious and medicinal purposes. Celeriac also has a literary past. It was even mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey in 800 B.C.

One of the most well-known uses of celeriac is in the French dish known as Celeri Roumalade, which combines the root vegetable with a Dijon dressing. Celeriac can sometimes be found in European markets bundled with other root vegetables used in soups.

What is the nutritional value of celeriac?

Some view celeriac as a “nutritional powerhouse.” That’s because it contains a wide range of nutrients and vitamins, including protein, vitamins C, D, B6, and K, and manganese. Because it is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, it is a popular alternative to starches in stews, soups, and even pies.

Where is celeriac grown?

Unlike some other root vegetables, celeriac grows above ground. It is found most commonly in northern Europe and the Mediterranean Region. It can also be found in Siberia, Asia, and North Africa, and is grown sparingly in North America.

Celeriac is slow to germinate and takes about 120 days from planting to harvest.

When is celeriac in season?

Celeriac is available year-round, but it’s at its best between September and April. A winter vegetable, it recently peaked in popularity. When you use a fresh produce delivery service like Instacart, you can be assured of getting high-quality celeriac at a fair price. Same-day delivery and pick-up are also available.

What should you look for when buying celeriac?

Avoid discolored bulbs and look for firm celery roots whose weight seems heavy in proportion to the size. Those bulbs with soft spots are also not a good choice. Do not be turned off by dirt on the surface or by its appearance. When peeled with a knife, celeriac is firm and smooth and can be eaten raw, cut into cubes, and even mashed like a potato. Beneath its exterior, celeriac is smooth and white.

Try ordering celeriac and having it delivered through Instacart. After adding it to the cart, use the “Instructions” option to give the Instacart shopper preferences or specific directions on how to choose the right product. Shop for celeriac.

How to store celeriac

Celeriac is a winter vegetable with a shelf life of up to 8 months when stored properly. Its taste is most powerful when used soon after purchase. Don’t wash it right away, but instead put it in a plastic or paper bag in the fresh produce drawer in the refrigerator. It will last there up to several weeks.

To ensure a longer life and prevent discoloration (which can happen quickly when peeled or chopped), dump it into a bowl of water containing either white wine vinegar or lemon juice. This mixture is called acidulated water. A good proportion is 2c cold water to 2tsp white vinegar or 1½tbsp lemon juice.

What can be substituted for celeriac?

Butternut squash, turnips, parsley roots, carrots, and potatoes are among the common root vegetable replacements for celeriac. When looking for that celery taste, celery itself or celery seed make good substitutes.

Find celeriac near me

Although more obscure and less attractive than other vegetables, celeriac is a fantastic addition to your fresh produce order. Same-day delivery is a great way to expand your range of ingredients, saving you time and money and exposing you and your family to new taste options.

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