How To Pickle Celeriac

What is Celeriac?

Celeriac, also known as celery root, is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is often overlooked in the culinary world. It has a mild, celery-like flavor and a firm, crisp texture, making it a great candidate for pickling. Pickled celeriac can add a unique and tangy flavor to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.

Choosing the Right Celeriac

When selecting celeriac for pickling, look for firm, unblemished roots that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be smooth and free of soft spots. Opt for smaller celeriac roots, as they tend to be more tender and flavorful.

Preparing the Celeriac

Before pickling, it’s important to properly prepare the celeriac. Start by peeling the outer skin using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut the celeriac into uniform slices or cubes, ensuring that they will fit easily into your pickling jars.

Pickling Brine

The key to successful pickling is a well-balanced brine. A simple brine can be made by combining water, vinegar, sugar, and salt in a saucepan and bringing it to a boil. For added flavor, consider incorporating whole spices such as peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds into the brine.

The Pickling Process

Once the brine is prepared, pack the prepared celeriac into clean, sterilized jars. Pour the hot brine over the celeriac, ensuring that it is completely submerged. Seal the jars and allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your pickled celeriac by experimenting with different flavor variations. Consider adding garlic cloves, fresh herbs, or citrus zest to the pickling brine for a unique twist. You can also adjust the sweetness or acidity of the brine to suit your personal taste preferences.

Storage and Enjoyment

Allow the pickled celeriac to marinate in the refrigerator for at least a few days before enjoying. The flavors will continue to develop over time, so be patient for the best results. Once ready, use the pickled celeriac to add a zesty kick to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.

In Conclusion

Pickling celeriac is a simple and rewarding way to preserve this underappreciated vegetable. With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create delicious pickled celeriac that will elevate your culinary creations. So, next time you come across celeriac at the market, consider bringing it home and trying your hand at pickling!