Pronounce it: sell-air-e-ak

The unsung hero of the vegetable world, knobbly, odd-shaped celeriac has a subtle, celery-like flavour, with nutty overtones. Try it as mash, in big-flavoured, slow-cook dishes, or in its classic form, and as they do in France, as a remoulade.

Availability

Celeriac is available year round but is at its best from September to April.

Choose the best

Choose a firm root that feels heavy for its size. Avoid those that are discoloured.

Prepare it

Using a sharp knife, top and tail the celeriac, then use a potato peeler to remove the rhino-tough skin. Expect to discard about a quarter of the celeriac by the time you’ve done this.

Store it

In the salad drawer of your fridge before use. Celeriac discolours quickly, immerse in a bowl of water, after chopping to size, with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar added (also known as ‘acidulated water’).

Cook it

Boils in 20 mins, roasts in around 40 mins when cut into rough-shaped chunks.

Alternatives

Try sweet potato, butternut squash or turnip.