Celeriac root, which is also called celery root or knob celery, is a tasty vegetable that can be used in many different dishes. But, as with many root vegetables, the right way to store them is important to keep them fresh and stop them from going bad. This complete guide will tell you everything you need to know about how to store celeriac root after you’ve picked it or bought it.
Celeriac is a root vegetable cultivated from a type of celery bred specifically for its root rather than its stalks The knobby, bulbous root has a brown exterior that hides a smooth, white interior flesh with a flavor reminiscent of celery, but more pronounced and nutty.
Celeriac can be eaten raw or cooked, adding its distinct flavor to salads, soups, stews, mashes, and other dishes. It contains antioxidants like vitamin C and is low in calories, making it a nutritious addition to any meal
Proper Storage Conditions for Whole Celeriac Root
When storing a whole. uncut celeriac root the ideal storage conditions include
-
Cold Temperature: As close to 32°F (0°C) as possible. The refrigerator crisper drawer is a good choice.
-
High Humidity: Maintaining 90-95% relative humidity prevents moisture loss. Wrap root in damp paper towels or perforated plastic bags.
-
Ventilation: Some air circulation prevents mold growth and rotting. Avoid airtight containers.
-
Darkness: Exposure to light can cause bitterness and discoloration.
-
Intact: Uncut surfaces retain moisture better than exposed inner flesh. Leave whole until ready to use.
Whole celeriac root can be stored for two to three weeks before losing its quality if it is kept in a cool, damp, and dark place. Check frequently for mold, soft spots, or shriveling.
Storing Peeled, Cut, or Cooked Celeriac
Once celeriac has been peeled, sliced, or cooked, it becomes highly perishable and requires extra care:
-
Place cut pieces in acidified, cold water (lemon juice or vinegar) to prevent browning.
-
Pat dry thoroughly before refrigerating to remove excess moisture.
-
Seal tightly in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags.
-
Use within 3-5 days for best quality and flavor.
Don’t cut or cook celeriac too much until you’re ready to eat it. Air drastically shortens the shelf life compared to whole roots.
Long-Term Storage Options
For long-term celeriac storage spanning months rather than weeks, these techniques can be used:
-
Cellaring: Bury roots in moist sawdust, sand, peat, or leaves to retain moisture and prevent freezing. Cellar near 32°F with 90-95% humidity. Ventilate to avoid rot. May last 4-6 months this way.
-
Freezing: Blanch pieces for 2-3 minutes until almost tender. Cool, pat dry, and seal in freezer bags removing air. Will last about 10-12 months frozen.
-
Dehydrating: Wash, peel, and slice celeriac 1⁄4 inch thick. Dehydrate at 140°F until completely dried. Keep dried pieces in airtight containers for up to 1 year. Rehydrate before using.
What to Avoid When Storing Celeriac
Some common storage mistakes will quickly lead to spoiled, inedible celeriac. Avoid these pitfalls:
-
Leaving leafy tops or rootlets attached – speeds moisture loss
-
Exposing to warmth, light, or room temperature
-
Washing before refrigerated storage
-
Using airtight containers without ventilation
-
Cutting or slicing too far in advance of use
-
Freezing without blanching first to prevent texture changes
Storing Celeriac Root for Maximum Freshness
Follow these guidelines for keeping celeriac root fresh for as long as possible:
-
Select firm, heavy roots free of bruises or soft spots
-
Trim leafy tops and rootlets before storage
-
Keep whole roots refrigerated near 32°F with high humidity
-
Wrap in damp towels or perforated bags; avoid airtight containers
-
Use within 2 weeks for highest quality
-
Once peeled or cut, use within 3-5 days
-
For long-term storage, cellar, freeze, or dehydrate properly
With attentive storage conditions, you can enjoy delicious celeriac root for many weeks after purchasing or harvesting. Proper post-harvest care helps this tasty vegetable retain its signature flavor and texture.
First: Peel the Root
Celeriac has a thick skin and lots of crazy roots diverging at the bottom. Remove the foliage and skin so you have a clean cream-colored root.
Cleaning and Storing Celery Root
FAQ
Does celeriac need to be refrigerated?
Storing & Cooking Information Storing: Celeriac will last several weeks in the hydrator drawer of the fridge or in a plastic bag in the fridge. Do not wash before storing in fridge. Freezing: Celeriac freezes well. Wash, peel and cut into discs or cubes.
How do you store celeriac long term?
Celeriac roots (without the leaves) should be kept in a cool, damp place, like a root cellar where the temperature is close to freezing, in things like wet sand, sawdust, leaves, or wood shavings. Fedco Seeds says that the roots will store up to six months under these conditions.
How long does celeriac last once cut?
Store it unwrapped to maintain its quality, however once cut open store in an airtight container to stop it drying out, you can squeeze a lemon over the cut surface to stop oxidisation too. Celeriac should last several weeks without significant loss of quality.
Can you store celeriac in water?
How to store celeriac. In the salad drawer of your fridge. Once celeriac is peeled or chopped, it turns a yellow color quickly. To keep it from turning brown, put it in a bowl of water with white wine vinegar or lemon juice added.