| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 18g | 11g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 4g | 6g | 0.75g |
From the first time I created this Celeriac Gratin, it has held a cherished spot at my dinner table. It harks back to the comforting warmth of classic potato gratin but with a unique twist that feels simultaneously bold and familiar. The blend of celeriac, apple, and pear creates a harmony of flavors that elevate this humble root vegetable into a gourmet delight.
The recipe is close to my heart, intertwining my love for fresh Californian produce with a subtle nod to my Gujarati heritage. Celeriac, also known as celery root, is an underappreciated gem in the vegetable world. Its mildly sweet, nutty flavor paired with the tartness of Granny Smith apples and the sweetness of Bosc pears creates a balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
A Nutrient-Rich Choice
Not only is this Celeriac Gratin delicious, but it also comes with notable health benefits. Celeriac is incredibly nutritious, loaded with fiber, vitamins C, K, and B6, and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. Incorporating this vegetable into your diet can support immune function, improve bone health, and aid in digestion. The addition of apples and pears introduces an extra layer of vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish both mouth-watering and health-conscious.
Perfect Pairings and Similar Dishes
This gratin pairs beautifully with roasted meats, particularly lamb or chicken. The creamy, cheesy layers are a natural complement to the savory richness of roasted proteins. For a fully vegetarian meal, consider serving it alongside a vibrant salad or grilled Portobello mushrooms. It’s a versatile dish that can seamlessly fit into various dining experiences, from everyday family dinners to more elaborate holiday feasts.
If you love gratins in general, you might also enjoy exploring other similar dishes. Think of a classic Potato Dauphinoise, where thinly sliced potatoes are bathed in a rich mixture of cream and cheese. Or perhaps try a Butternut Squash Gratin for something a bit sweeter and just as satisfying. Each of these dishes brings its own unique flavor and charm, just like this Celeriac Gratin.
Try out this recipe and experience a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and health benefits. It’s a dish that perfectly captures my culinary philosophy—bridging cultures and traditions while celebrating the freshest ingredients.
For more information on the nutritional benefits of celeriac, you can check out this Healthline article on celeriac benefits. And if you’re curious about more apple varieties that can work with your gratin, take a look at this guide from The Spruce Eats.
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium celeriac bulbs (about 2.5 pounds total)
- 1 large apple (preferably Granny Smith)
- 1 large pear (preferably Bosc)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step Two
Peel the celeriac bulbs, apple, and pear. Cut them into thin slices, approximately 1/8-inch thick.
Step Three
In a large mixing bowl, combine the celeriac, apple, and pear slices. Sprinkle them with lemon juice to prevent browning and toss to coat.
Step Four
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and add the minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to the saucepan. Stir to combine and cook gently until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
Step Six
Arrange half of the celeriac, apple, and pear slices evenly in the greased baking dish. Pour half of the cream mixture over the arranged slices.
Step Seven
Sprinkle half of the grated Gruyere and half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the layer.
Step Eight
Add the remaining celeriac, apple, and pear slices on top and pour the rest of the cream mixture evenly over them.
Step Nine
Top with the remaining Gruyere and Parmesan cheese. Evenly spread the breadcrumbs over the top.
Step Ten
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the celeriac is tender.
Step Eleven
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your Celeriac Gratin!
