How To Store Celery Root

TL;DR

Store celery root in the refrigerator for 3-4 weeks, in a root cellar for up to 4 months, or freeze for 10-12 months
Maintain optimal storage conditions: 32-40°F (0-4°C), 85-95% humidity, and a dark environment
Choose firm, medium-sized celery roots with smooth skin for best storage results
Clean and trim celery root before storage, but avoid washing for long-term storage
Regularly check stored celery root for signs of spoilage like soft spots, discoloration, or unpleasant odors

Introduction

Celery root, the unsung hero of the vegetable world, is a culinary treasure waiting to be discovered. This knobby, brown orb might not win any beauty contests, but its crisp texture and nutty flavor make it a versatile ingredient in countless dishes. Proper storage is key to preserving its unique qualities and ensuring you always have this delightful vegetable on hand.

Let’s dive into the world of celery root storage and unlock the secrets to keeping this root vegetable fresh and flavorful for weeks, or even months!

Understanding Celery Root

What is Celery Root?

Celery root, also known as celeriac, is the edible root of a special variety of celery plant. Despite its name, it’s not the root of the celery stalks you typically find in grocery stores. This bulbous vegetable boasts a rough, brown exterior that conceals a creamy white flesh within.

Its flavor? Imagine a delicate blend of celery and parsley with nutty undertones. Celery root can be enjoyed raw, roasted, mashed, or pureed, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.

Seasonal Availability

Celery root thrives in cooler weather, making it a fall and winter staple. You’ll typically find the freshest celery root from October through April. This seasonal availability aligns perfectly with its storage potential, as cooler temperatures naturally aid in preserving this root vegetable.

Knowing when celery root is in season not only ensures you’re getting the freshest produce but also helps you plan your storage strategy. After all, a well-stored celery root can keep you supplied with this versatile vegetable long after its peak season has passed.

Selecting and Preparing

Choosing Fresh Celery Root

Selecting the perfect celery root is the first step in ensuring optimal storage. Here’s what to look for:

Size: Opt for medium-sized roots, about 3-5 inches in diameter. They’re often more tender and flavorful than larger ones.
Firmness: Give it a gentle squeeze. A fresh celery root should feel firm and heavy for its size.
Skin: Look for smooth skin with minimal blemishes or soft spots.
Color: The exterior should be a pale tan or light brown.
Aroma: A fresh celery root will have a mild, celery-like scent.

Avoid any celery roots with visible mold, large bruises, or a hollow sound when tapped. These are signs that the vegetable may already be past its prime.

Cleaning and Trimming

Before storing your celery root, a bit of prep work goes a long way:

Gently brush off any excess dirt with a soft vegetable brush. Don’t wash the root if you plan to store it for an extended period, as excess moisture can lead to spoilage.
Trim off any small roots or green shoots, but leave the main root intact.
If the celery root came with its greens attached, remove them. The leaves draw moisture from the root, shortening its storage life.
For refrigerator storage, you can leave the skin on. If freezing, you’ll want to peel and cut the celery root before storage.

Remember, a little care at this stage can significantly extend your celery root’s shelf life.

Storage Methods

Refrigerator Storage

The refrigerator is your go-to for short to medium-term celery root storage. Here’s how to do it right:

Wrap the cleaned, untrimmed celery root loosely in a paper towel. This helps absorb excess moisture without suffocating the vegetable.
Place the wrapped celery root in a perforated plastic bag. The perforations allow for air circulation, preventing condensation buildup.
Store in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This area typically maintains higher humidity, which celery root loves.
Check on your celery root weekly, removing any soft spots to prevent spread.

With this method, your celery root can last 3-4 weeks, sometimes even longer if stored properly.

Root Cellar Storage

For those lucky enough to have a root cellar, you’re in for a treat. Root cellars provide ideal conditions for long-term celery root storage:

Brush off excess dirt, but don’t wash the celery root.
Trim off greens if present, leaving about an inch of stem.
Bury the roots in slightly damp sand or sawdust in a wooden box or bucket.
Place in a cool (32-40°F), dark, and humid (85-95% humidity) area of your root cellar.

This method can keep your celery root fresh for up to 4 months, sometimes even longer!

Freezer Storage

Freezing is a great option if you want to store celery root for an extended period:

Peel and cut the celery root into cubes or slices.
Blanch the pieces in boiling water for 3 minutes, then immediately plunge into ice water.
Drain well and pat dry.
Pack into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
Label with the date and freeze.

Frozen celery root maintains its quality for about 10-12 months. While it may lose some of its crispness, it’s perfect for soups, stews, and purees.

Optimal Storage Conditions

To keep your celery root in top shape, aim for these ideal conditions:

Temperature: 32-40°F (0-4°C)
Humidity: 85-95%
Environment: Dark, well-ventilated space

These conditions mimic the cool, moist soil where celery root naturally grows. By recreating this environment, you’re giving your celery root the best chance at a long storage life.

High humidity prevents the root from drying out, while cool temperatures slow down the natural aging process. Darkness is important too, as light can encourage sprouting.

Storage Duration

How long your celery root lasts depends on your storage method:

Refrigerator: 3-4 weeks
Root Cellar: Up to 4 months
Freezer: 10-12 months

Remember, these are general guidelines. With optimal conditions and a bit of luck, you might squeeze out even more time. The key is regular checks and proper preparation.

Maintaining Quality

Signs of Spoilage

Even with the best storage practices, celery root won’t last forever. Keep an eye out for these signs of spoilage:

Soft or mushy spots
Discoloration or dark patches
Mold growth
Unpleasant odor
Hollow sound when tapped

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to compost the celery root or cut away affected areas if the damage is minimal.

Extending Shelf Life

Want to keep your celery root fresh for as long as possible? Try these tips:

Handle with care to avoid bruising.
Store celery root away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples and pears.
For refrigerated storage, check and replace the paper towel if it becomes damp.
In root cellars, inspect stored roots regularly and remove any that show signs of decay.
For frozen celery root, use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Remember, the fresher your celery root is when you store it, the longer it will last. So always start with the best quality produce you can find.

Common Storage Questions

Q: Can I store cut celery root? A: Yes, but it won’t last as long. Wrap cut pieces tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.

Q: Should I wash celery root before storing? A: For long-term storage, it’s best not to wash celery root as excess moisture can lead to spoilage. Simply brush off dirt and wash just before use.

Q: Can I store celery root at room temperature? A: While celery root can last a few days at room temperature, it’s best stored in cooler conditions for optimal freshness and longevity.

Q: Is it normal for stored celery root to develop sprouts? A: Yes, this can happen, especially in warmer conditions. If the root is still firm, simply cut away the sprouts before use.

Q: Can I regrow celery root from scraps? A: While you can regrow celery from the base, celery root is typically grown from seeds. The root itself won’t regrow once harvested.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of celery root storage opens up a world of culinary possibilities. With these techniques in your arsenal, you’ll always have this versatile vegetable ready for your next culinary creation. Whether you’re planning a creamy soup, a crisp salad, or a comforting roast, your well-stored celery root will be there, fresh and flavorful, waiting to elevate your dish. Happy storing, and even happier cooking!