Crispy Baked Celery Root with Melted Cheese

Have you ever walked past celery root in the grocery store, unsure of what to do with this humble root vegetable? Get ready to discover a game-changing recipe that will transform this overlooked gem into a mouthwatering dish that rivals your favorite comfort foods. This baked celery root recipe, topped with melted cheese and aromatic herbs, is about to become your new winter favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside
• Rich in vitamins and minerals – perfect for boosting winter immunity
• Budget-friendly comfort food
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Can be prepared ahead of time
• Family-friendly – even picky eaters will love it!

Ingredients

For 4-6 servings:

• 2 large celery roots (about 2 pounds), cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 teaspoons chili flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3.5 ounces (100g) shredded cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 lemon (optional, for preventing discoloration)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Grater for cheese

Expert Tips for Success

1. Preparation is Key: Cut celery root into uniform cubes for even cooking
2. Prevent Browning: If not cooking immediately, toss cut pieces in lemon juice or keep in lemon water
3. Perfect Texture: For quicker cooking, you can parboil the cubes for 10 minutes before baking
4. Even Coating: Toss thoroughly in the seasoned oil mixture to ensure every piece is well-coated
5. Cheese Selection: Choose a cheese that melts well for the best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Peel and cube the celery root into 1-inch pieces
3. If needed, toss with lemon juice to prevent discoloration

2. Season and Coat

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Olive oil
   • Minced garlic
   • Curry powder
   • Red pepper flakes
   • Chili flakes
   • Salt and black pepper
2. Add the celery root cubes and toss until evenly coated

3. First Bake

1. Spread the seasoned cubes on a parchment-lined baking tray
2. Cover with parchment paper
3. Bake for 30 minutes in the middle rack

4. Add Cheese and Finish

1. Remove from oven and top with shredded cheese
2. Switch to broil setting
3. Bake for additional 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness
• Not recommended for freezing

Nutritional Benefits

Celery root is packed with essential nutrients:

• High in fiber
• Rich in Vitamin K and Vitamin C
• Good source of potassium
• Contains antioxidants
• Low in calories

Recipe Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes to your preference
• Herb Variations: Try adding rosemary or thyme for different flavor profiles
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of melting cheese
• Extra Crispy: Pre-sauté the cubes in a pan before baking for extra crispiness

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats
• Serve as a vegetarian main course with a fresh salad
• Pair with a warm soup for a complete winter meal
• Great for holiday gatherings and family dinners

FAQ

Q: Can I prepare this in advance? A: Yes! Cut and season the celery root, then bake when ready to serve.

Q: How do I know when the celery root is cooked? A: It should be easily pierced with a fork but still maintain its shape.

Q: Can I make this without cheese? A: Absolutely! The seasoned celery root is delicious on its own.

Conclusion

This baked celery root recipe proves that humble ingredients can be transformed into extraordinary dishes. With its perfect balance of crispy texture, warming spices, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Give it a try and watch as even the skeptics become converts to the wonderful world of celery root!

Remember to tag us in your creations and share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🌟