Celeriac gratin is a delicious and creamy dish made with thinly sliced celeriac, cheese, and cream. It is a popular side dish that can be enjoyed with various main courses.
Celeriac gratin is easy to prepare and perfect for casual family dinners and special occasions. The dish is made by layering celeriac slices in a baking dish, covering them with a mixture of cream and cheese, and baking until golden and bubbly.
The result is a rich and flavorful gratin with a creamy texture and a hint of earthiness from the celeriac. Whether you’re a celeriac lover or trying it for the first time, this gratin will impress your taste buds.
What Is Celeriac
Derived from the celery family, celeriac is a versatile and nutritious root vegetable often overlooked in the culinary world. Also known as celery root, celeriac is a rough, knobby vegetable that may not win any beauty contests but certainly impresses with its unique flavour and exceptional health benefits. This article explores this humble yet remarkable vegetable, including its description and nutritional benefits.
Description
Celeriac is the root of various celery plants, Apium graveolens var. rapaceum. Despite its name, celeriac does not taste like celery but has a more robust and nutty flavour. Its rough and knobby exterior hides a crisp and smooth white flesh underneath. Celeriac is commonly used as a vegetable in various cuisines worldwide, lending itself to different cooking methods.
Nutritional Benefits
Celeriac may not be the most popular vegetable, but it packs a nutritional punch. Here are some of the vital health benefits of celeriac:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Fibre | 1.8g |
| Vitamin C | 8mg |
| Potassium | 300mg |
| Phosphorus | 115mg |
| Vitamin K | 41.1µg |
As shown in the table above, celeriac is low in calories but high in dietary fibre, making it an excellent option for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy digestive system. Additionally, it is a good source of vitamin C, which is crucial for immune function and collagen production. Potassium is another notable celeriac nutrient supporting heart health and muscle function. The vegetable also contains phosphorus, essential for bone strength, and vitamin K, contributing to blood clotting and bone health.
Celeriac is a nutrient-dense vegetable with a unique flavour and plenty of health benefits. Incorporating it into your diet can enhance your overall well-being and introduce you to delicious culinary possibilities.
Making Celeriac Gratin
Welcome to our guide on how to make a delicious celeriac gratin! This creamy and flavorful dish is a perfect addition to any dinner table, and its unique taste will leave your guests wanting more. In this section, we will walk you through the process of making celeriac gratin. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make celeriac gratin, you will need the following ingredients:
- One large celeriac
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, follow these simple preparation steps:
- Peel the celeriac and cut it into thin slices.
- Combine the heavy cream, grated Gruyere cheese, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cooking Instructions
It’s time to turn those prepared ingredients into a mouthwatering celeriac gratin. Just follow these cooking instructions:
- Layer half of the celeriac slices in the greased baking dish.
- Pour half of the cream and cheese mixture over the celeriac.
- Repeat the process with the remaining celeriac slices and cream mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
- After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Please remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
There you have it—a simple guide to making celeriac gratin. This dish will impress your family and friends with its creamy texture and rich flavour. Enjoy!
Variations And Tips
Variations:
While traditional celeriac gratin is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to add some extra flavour and excitement to this classic dish. Here are a few suggestions:
- Add some cheese: For a cheesier version, sprinkle some grated Gruyere or Parmesan on top of the gratin before baking. This will create a delicious golden crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy celeriac.
- Get creative with herbs and spices. Experiment with different herb and spice combinations to enhance the dish’s flavours. Consider using thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg for aromatic deliciousness.
- Try different toppings: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for added crunch, and sprinkle it over the top before baking. This will give your gratin a delightfully crispy texture.
- Add vegetables: If you want to incorporate more vegetables into your meal, mix thinly sliced potatoes or carrots with the celeriac for a colourful and nutritious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Celeriac gratin is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
- Pair it with roast chicken. The creamy and flavorful celeriac gratin makes an excellent accompaniment to a succulent roast chicken. The combination of flavours and textures will leave your taste buds satisfied.
- Serve it alongside a juicy steak. The richness of the gratin complements a juicy steak perfectly. The creamy celeriac balances out the savoury flavours of the meat and creates a decadent and satisfying meal.
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main course: celeriac gratin can also shine as the star of a vegetarian meal. Serve it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a satisfying and wholesome dinner.
- Use it as a unique side dish. If you’re looking for a distinctive side dish to elevate your meal, celeriac gratin is an excellent choice. It pairs beautifully with various meats, fish, and poultry, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.
Storage Tips
To make the most of your celeriac gratin leftovers, storing them properly is essential. Follow these storage tips to keep your gratin fresh:
- Allow it to cool: Before storing your gratin, let it cool down completely at room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
- Refrigerate promptly. Once the gratin has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. The cooler temperature will help maintain its freshness.
- Consume within a few days: Celeriac Gratin is best enjoyed within 2–3 days of preparation. After that, its quality may start to deteriorate.
- Reheat for maximum flavour: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) when reheating your gratin, and cover the dish with aluminium foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions For Celeriac Gratin
Why Do Chefs Use Celeriac?
Chefs use celeriac because of its unique flavour and versatility. It adds a subtle and earthy taste to dishes. The root vegetable can be mashed, roasted, or used in salads, soups, and stews. With its crunchy texture, it brings a refreshing twist to recipes.
What Is The Use Of Celeriac?
Celeriac, or celery root, is a versatile vegetable in various dishes. It can be cooked, mashed, roasted, or used in soups and stews. Celeriac adds a unique taste to your meals with its distinct flavour and texture.
What Part Of Celeriac Do You Eat?
You eat the root of celeriac, also known as celery root.
What Is Au Gratin Made Of?
Au gratin has a creamy sauce and a layer of melted cheese. It is commonly used to enhance dishes like potatoes, vegetables, or pasta, giving them a flavorful and cheesy twist. Enjoy au gratin as a delicious and indulgent side dish.
Conclusion
Celeriac gratin is a delicious and unique dish that anyone can enjoy. With its creamy and flavorful layers, it is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will impress your family and friends.
So why not try it and add some excitement to your next meal?