Get Ready to Fall in Love with Celeriac: The Lesser-Known Root Veggie with Huge Health Benefits
As the fall season approaches, many of us are excited to bring out our cozy sweaters and indulge in pumpkin-spiced lattes. But for food enthusiasts, one of the most exciting aspects of fall is the arrival of root vegetable season. While potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips are well-loved, there are some lesser-known varieties that deserve our attention, such as celeriac. This delicious root vegetable not only offers a unique taste but is also packed with nutrients that promote good health. Let’s dive into what exactly celeriac is, its health benefits, and how we can incorporate it into our cooking.
Celeriac, also known as celery root, is closely related to celery but is not the same as the celery stalks we’re familiar with. According to Bianca Tamburello, RDN at FRESH Communications, celeriac is a separate species of root vegetable that is also related to parsnips, carrots, and parsley. It can go by different names, including knob celery, turnip-rooted celery, and celery root. With its irregular turnip-like shape and bumpy texture, celeriac stands out. Its exterior is light beige and covered in small rootlets, while the inside resembles a white potato. Although it sprouts leafy celery-like stalks above ground, these are not the same as the celery we commonly consume. Instead, they can be used to make tasty homemade vegetable stock.
Celeriac can be enjoyed in both raw and cooked forms. Raw celeriac offers a satisfying crunch, while cooked celeriac brings out its subtle nutty sweetness. Its taste is similar to celery leaves, parsley, and turnips but with an earthy undertone. The harvest season for celeriac typically runs from September through April, though it can often be found in grocery stores year-round. Look for celeriac alongside other root vegetables in the produce aisle. Interestingly, celeriac has a deeply rooted history as a food staple and medicinal plant. It has been used for thousands of years in cultures such as Roman, Egyptian, and Greek, both for its culinary and healing properties. In Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, celeriac is used to detoxify the body and lower blood pressure.
Now let’s explore the impressive health benefits of celeriac:
1. Immune Health: Celeriac is rich in immune-boosting vitamins C and E, as well as various plant compounds with antioxidant properties. These micronutrients help reduce inflammation and combat harmful free radicals, which can lead to chronic diseases.
2. Heart Health: Vitamin C in celeriac supports optimal heart health, along with potassium, fiber, and vitamin K. Vitamin C has been linked to a reduced risk of high blood pressure, a key factor in heart disease. Vitamin K plays a vital role in blood clotting, and the soluble fiber in celeriac helps remove cholesterol from the body, preventing plaque build-up in arteries.
3. Gut Health: The fiber content in celeriac promotes a healthy gut by preventing constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and cramping. The soluble fiber acts as a prebiotic, nourishing the beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiome, which aids in digestion and overall wellness.
4. Bone Health: Celeriac contains calcium, phosphorus, and manganese that contribute to strong bones and help prevent bone diseases like osteoporosis and osteopenia.
5. Metabolic Health: With its low carbohydrate content and fiber, celeriac can be beneficial for those with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. The fiber slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels, preventing spikes and crashes.
6. B Vitamins: Celeriac is a rich source of B vitamins, particularly vitamin B6, which supports various body functions, the immune system, and the brain. Vitamin B6 also helps prevent anemia.
When selecting celeriac, look for a medium-sized bulb with a firm and heavy feel. Avoid options that are discolored, cracked, or hollow. To store, keep celeriac in the vegetable drawer of the fridge or in a cool, dry place. Before using, scrub the root with cool water to remove dirt and peel off the tough outer skin. Celeriac can be thinly sliced or grated for use in salads or slaws, or roasted, boiled, and mashed for soups, stews, and savory dishes. Celeri remoulade, a French salad featuring celeriac in a tangy dressing, is also a popular dish.
There are countless reasons to explore the world of celeriac this fall. Its unique taste, versatility in cooking, and impressive health benefits make it a worthwhile addition to your culinary repertoire. So, why not give celeriac a try and savor the flavors and goodness it brings.