Celeriac steak, also known as celery root steak, is a delicious and hearty vegetarian alternative to traditional meat steaks. This recipe showcases the earthy flavor and tender texture of celeriac, enhanced with a medley of spices and a simple sear. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy plant-based meal, celeriac steaks are versatile, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just exploring meat-free options, this recipe is sure to impress.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 20 minutes
Resting Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 200 kcal
Cuisine: Global
Course: Main Course
Ingredients
- 1 large celeriac (about 500g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for umami flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
- Tongs
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Serving plate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Celeriac
- Peel the celeriac using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, removing all the rough skin.
- Slice the celeriac into 1-inch thick rounds. Each slice will become a steak.
- Rinse the slices and pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
Step 2: Marinate the Steaks
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, soy sauce (if using), and lemon juice.
- Brush the celeriac slices generously with the marinade on both sides. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
- Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan and let it heat.
- Place the marinated celeriac slices into the pan. Sear each side for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Lower the heat and cover the pan with a lid for another 5 minutes to ensure the steaks cook through and become tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Transfer the cooked celeriac steaks to a serving plate.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve hot with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: 15% of the Daily Value
- Potassium: 10% of the Daily Value
Tips and Variations
- Add a Sauce: Pair the celeriac steaks with a creamy tahini sauce, chimichurri, or a vegan gravy for extra flavor.
- Grill Instead of Pan-Frying: For a smoky flavor, grill the celeriac steaks on a barbecue or grill pan.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or herbs like thyme and rosemary for a fragrant touch.
- Make It a Meal: Serve the steaks alongside quinoa, couscous, or a grain bowl for a filling and balanced dinner.
Why Choose Celeriac?
Celeriac is a low-calorie root vegetable rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Its nutty and slightly sweet flavor makes it an excellent choice for various culinary applications. By transforming celeriac into steaks, you create a satisfying main course that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
- Casual Dinner: Serve with roasted carrots, parsnips, and a dollop of vegan yogurt.
- Festive Meal: Add a side of cranberry sauce and roasted chestnuts for a holiday-inspired plate.
- Light Lunch: Pair with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
This celeriac steak recipe proves that simple ingredients can create gourmet-worthy dishes. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a pure vegetarian alternative to traditional steak. Give it a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness of celeriac in every bite!