If you’ve ever wondered: what is the difference between celery and celery root (celeriac), then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re going to explain the differences and provide a nutritional comparison. We’ll also answer some of the most common questions about the taste of celery root and whether it can be substituted with celery.
Are Celery And Celery Root (Celeriac) The Same?
Celery and celery root (celeriac) are part of the same plant, but they’re not the same thing. The main difference between the two is the texture, which means that we can’t replace one with the other in a recipe.
What is Celery?
Celery is the top part of the plant that sticks out of the earth. We know it as the green stalks that we buy in bunches at the store. They often come in the form of pre-washed celery hearts.
What is Celeriac?
Celeriac is the root of the plant and that farmers have to pull out of the earth during harvesting. It’s a root vegetable, like carrots and potatoes, that’s closer to a grapefruit in size and shape.
Does Celeriac Taste Like Celery?
Celeriac resembles celery in taste, but it also has a deeper, earthier flavor that has a bit more bite to it.
Can You Substitute Celery for Celeriac?
If you wanted to, you could probably substitute celery for celeriac when cooking. However, you’d be able to tell the difference, so it’s not a perfect replacement.
Celeriac has a far more intense flavor than celery and a different texture. That’s because when it’s cooked and chopped up, it looks a bit like a potato. And it can’t be eaten raw like celery.
What is Celeriac Called in America?
In America, celeriac is called celery root. Some people also call it turnip-rooted celery or knob celery.
Does Celery Grow from Celeriac?
Yes, celery grows from celeriac. It’s the top, green and leafy part that protrudes from the earth. Celeriac is the root.
Nutritional Comparison
Celeriac is rich in vitamins (B6, C, K), fiber, minerals (potassium, phosphorus, manganese), and antioxidants. For a root vegetable, it’s also remarkably low in carbohydrates. It improves bone health, aids digestion, and generally works wonders for the heart.
Celery is rich in vitamins (K, A, C, B9) and minerals (manganese, potassium, calcium, folate, sodium). It’s also a good source of antioxidants, helps prevent dehydration due to its high water content, reduces stress hormones, works as an anti-cancer agent, and eases bloating.
Wrap Up
To sum up, celery and celery root (celeriac) are not the same. Even though they’re part of the same plant, they have very different textures. Celeriac is also denser in taste, offering a more intense flavor in a dish. Both offer various health benefits, which include vitamins and minerals, and overall improve various body functions.
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
