Page Contents
Celery root, also known as celeriac, is a tasty root vegetable often used in soups, stews and salads. Although it’s a versatile and delicious ingredient, it can be difficult to know how long celery root will keep in the fridge. Proper storage and handling are key to keeping celery root fresh for as long as possible. In this article, we’ll look at the best ways to store celery root in the fridge and how long you can expect it to last. We’ll also give you tips on how to extend the shelf life of celery root and ideas for using it in your favourite recipes.
What is celery root?
Celery root, also known as celeriac, is a root vegetable related to celery. Unlike celery, which is grown for its stalks, celery root is grown for its bulbous, knobby root. The skin of celery root is brown and rough, while the flesh is creamy white. When cooked, celery root has a mild, slightly sweet flavour with a hint of celery. It can be eaten raw or cooked and is a popular ingredient in soups, stews and salads. Celery root is also packed with nutrients, including fibre, potassium, phosphorus and vitamin C. It’s a low-calorie, low-carbohydrate vegetable that can be a healthy addition to any diet.
Purchase and storage of celery root
When buying celery root, look for firm, heavy roots with no soft spots or blemishes. The skin should be dry and unbroken. If the celery root has leaves, they should be fresh and green.
To store celery root in the fridge, it’s important to keep it dry and cool. Wrap the celery root in a paper towel or cloth and place it in a plastic bag or container in the vegetable crisper drawer of the fridge. Alternatively, you can store it in a perforated plastic bag to allow air circulation.
Celery root will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. After that, it may begin to lose flavour and texture. To extend the shelf life of celery root, consider blanching it and freezing it for later use. Blanching involves briefly boiling the celery root and then plunging it into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once blanched, celery root can be frozen for up to six months.
By following these tips for buying and storing celery root, you can ensure that it stays fresh and flavoursome for as long as possible. Whether you’re using it in a soup, salad or roast, celery root is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add a unique flavour and texture to your favourite dishes.
How long does celery root keep in the fridge?
Celery root will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks if stored correctly. The key to keeping celery root fresh is to keep it dry and cool. Celery root can be stored in the crisper drawer of the fridge for up to two weeks to maintain its freshness and flavour.
It’s important to check celery root regularly for signs of spoilage, such as soft spots or mould. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the celery root immediately.
If you have celery root that you can’t use within two weeks, consider blanching and freezing it for later use. Blanching involves briefly boiling the celery root and then plunging it into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once blanched, celery root can be frozen for up to six months.
By storing celery root properly and checking for signs of spoilage, you can ensure that it stays fresh and flavoursome for as long as possible. Whether you’re using it in a soup, salad or roast, celery root is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add a unique flavour and texture to your favourite dishes.
Signs of spoilage
It’s important to check celery root regularly for signs of spoilage. Here are some common signs that celery root may be spoiled:
- Soft spots: If the celery root feels soft or mushy in places, it may be spoiled.
- Mould: If you see mould growing on the celery root, it should be discarded immediately.
- Discolouration: If the celery root has brown or black spots, it may be spoiled.
- Unpleasant smell: If the celery root has a foul or unpleasant odour, it may be spoiled.
If you notice any of these signs of spoilage, discard the celery root immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety. By checking celery root for signs of spoilage and storing it properly, you can ensure that it stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible.
Tips for extending shelf life
There are a few tips you can follow to extend the shelf life of celery root:
- Store properly: Store celery root in a cool, dry place, such as the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Wrap it in a paper towel or cloth to absorb excess moisture.
- Check for spoilage: Check the celery root regularly for signs of spoilage, such as soft spots, mould, discolouration or an unpleasant odour. Discard any celery root that appears to be spoiled.
- Use it immediately: Celery root is best used within two weeks of purchase. If you can’t use it within that time, consider blanching and freezing it for later use.
- Blanching and freezing: Blanching celery root involves boiling it briefly and then plunging it into ice water to stop the cooking process. Once blanched, celery root can be frozen for up to six months. This is a good option if you have extra celery root that you won’t be able to use within two weeks.
By following these tips, you can extend the shelf life of celery root and ensure that it stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Whether you’re using it in soups, stews or salads, celery root is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add a unique flavour and texture to your favourite dishes.
Uses of celery root
Celery root is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular ways to use celery root:
- Soups and Stews: Celery root adds a unique flavour and texture to soups and stews. It goes well with other root vegetables such as carrots and potatoes.
- Salads: Celery root can be eaten raw in salads. It can be grated or thinly sliced and added to green salads or used as a base for a slaw.
- Roasted or mashed: Celery root can be roasted or mashed like potatoes. It has a slightly sweet flavour and goes well with herbs such as thyme and rosemary.
- Pureed: Celery root can be pureed and used as a base for soups or as a side dish. It can be mixed with other vegetables, such as cauliflower, for added flavour and texture.
- French fries: Celery root can be cut into thin sticks and fried for a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional French fries.
By using celery root in a variety of dishes, you can take advantage of its unique flavour and texture. Whether you’re adding it to soups, stews, salads or side dishes, celery root is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can enhance your favourite recipes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, celery root is a tasty and nutritious root vegetable that can add a unique flavour and texture to a variety of dishes. Celery root will keep for up to two weeks if stored correctly in the fridge. It’s important to check it regularly for signs of spoilage and use it promptly to ensure it stays fresh and flavourful.
Whether you’re using celery root in soups, stews, salads or side dishes, it’s a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Consider roasting, pureeing or roasting celery root for a tasty and nutritious addition to your meals.
By following these tips for storing and handling celery root, you can ensure that it stays fresh and flavoursome for as long as possible. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a novice cook, celery root is a delicious and healthy ingredient that can enhance your favourite recipes.
FAQs
Q: How long can celery root be stored in the fridge?
A: Celery root can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks if stored properly.
Q: What are some signs that celery root may be spoiled?
A: Some signs that celery root may be spoiled include soft spots, mold, discoloration, and an unpleasant odor.
Q: Can celery root be frozen?
A: Yes, celery root can be blanched and frozen for up to six months.
Q: What are some uses for celery root?
A: Celery root can be used in soups, stews, salads, roasted or mashed like potatoes, and pureed for use as a base for soups or as a side dish.
Q: Is celery root a nutritious vegetable?
A: Yes, celery root is a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and carbs and high in fiber, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin C.