When I first tried Jamie Oliver’s celeriac mash, it was like discovering a hidden gem. I was at a dinner party, and the host served this simple yet sophisticated side dish. I took one bite and was hooked. It was creamy and rich, with a subtle earthiness I hadn’t expected. It made me rethink mashed potatoes, honestly. And ever since then, it’s been one of my go-to recipes when I want to elevate a meal without a lot of effort.
Celeriac, also known as celery root, isn’t the most glamorous vegetable at first glance. It looks like an odd, bumpy thing you wouldn’t think to pick up at the grocery store. But with Jamie Oliver’s mash recipe, this humble root transforms into a velvety dish that complements everything from roasted meats to vegetarian mains. It’s comfort food with a twist.
Jamie Oliver’s Celeriac Mash Recipe
Jamie’s celeriac mash is perfect if you’re looking for something different than the usual mashed potatoes. The beauty of this recipe lies in how simple it is, yet it brings out the best qualities of celeriac. Here’s what I learned when trying it myself:
- Texture: The mash is smooth and creamy but has a bit more bite than traditional mashed potatoes.
- Flavor: The celeriac has a subtle, nutty flavor that’s heightened by butter, garlic, and a touch of cream.
- Ease: It doesn’t require complicated techniques-just some chopping, boiling, and mashing.
This recipe has become my go-to when I’m looking to impress guests with something unexpected, but it’s easy enough to make on a weekday evening.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it doesn’t require fancy ingredients. Most of what you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- 1 medium celeriac – This is the star of the show. Look for firm, fresh bulbs without too many wrinkles.
- Butter – Adds richness and a velvety texture.
- Olive oil – Balances the richness of the butter with some lightness.
- Garlic – A couple of cloves to infuse the mash with warmth.
- Double cream – For an extra creamy finish. You can swap this out for milk if you’re looking for something lighter.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors.
- Fresh herbs (optional) – A bit of thyme or parsley for garnish adds freshness.
That’s it! Simple ingredients that make a huge impact. The real secret is the quality of your celeriac-so pick one that’s fresh and firm.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Celeriac Mash
The first time I made this, I followed the recipe step by step and was amazed by how little effort it took for such big flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Prep the celeriac: Peel and chop the celeriac into chunks. It’s a tough vegetable to cut, so take your time and use a sharp knife. It can be a little sticky, but that’s part of the fun.
- Boil the celeriac: Place the celeriac chunks in a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook until the pieces are tender-about 20 minutes.
- Garlic and butter: While the celeriac is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, toss in the butter and let it melt. This creates a lovely base for your mash.
- Mash it up: Once the celeriac is tender, drain it and return it to the pot. Mash it until smooth. You can use a potato masher or a hand blender, depending on how creamy you want it.
- Creamy goodness: Stir in the garlic-butter mixture and double cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish (optional): If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving.
And just like that, you have a dish that tastes luxurious but is so easy to make.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Celeriac may look like a bizarre root vegetable, but it’s packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s why it’s such a great choice:
- Low-carb: Unlike potatoes, celeriac is much lower in carbohydrates, which makes it perfect for low-carb or keto diets.
- High in fiber: It contains a good amount of fiber, helping with digestion and making you feel full longer.
- Rich in potassium: Celeriac is a great source of potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Vitamin B6: This vitamin is important for brain health and energy production, and you’ll find it in abundance in celeriac.
Celeriac is a powerhouse in a root vegetable disguise. Paired with butter and cream, it’s an indulgence that’s still better for you than mashed potatoes.
Expert Tips
When making this recipe, there are a few things I’ve picked up over time that make a difference:
- Don’t skip the garlic: The garlic infuses the mash with a subtle warmth that elevates the dish. You can even roast it for a sweeter flavor.
- Use a hand blender for smoothness: For an ultra-smooth mash, use a hand blender. You’ll get that restaurant-quality texture that’s hard to beat.
- Get the right celeriac: Look for a celeriac that feels heavy for its size and has no soft spots. A firm one will give you the best texture once mashed.
- Add extra flavor: Consider stirring in a spoonful of mustard or a bit of grated cheese for a more intense flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This dish holds up really well if made ahead. Just reheat with a bit of extra cream or butter.
These tips make all the difference in turning a good celeriac mash into a great one.
Recipe Variations
Once you’ve nailed the basic celeriac mash, here are a few variations you can try to mix it up:
- Herb-infused: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage while boiling the celeriac for a more aromatic flavor.
- Cheese: Stir in some parmesan or cheddar for a richer, cheesy twist.
- Roasted garlic: Roasting the garlic before adding it to the mash gives a mellow sweetness that contrasts nicely with the earthiness of the celeriac.
- Vegan version: Swap the butter and cream for olive oil and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly mash that’s just as creamy.
These variations add a personal touch to the recipe, so feel free to get creative!
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s celeriac mash has completely changed the way I approach side dishes. It’s simple yet sophisticated, and it has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a comforting, delicious dish for yourself, this recipe will never let you down.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Celeriac Mash Different From Regular Mashed Potatoes?
Jamie Oliver’s celeriac mash has a unique flavor thanks to the earthy celeriac root. It’s lighter and has a slightly nutty taste compared to traditional mashed potatoes.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Celeriac Mash Ahead Of Time?
Yes! You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What Should I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Celeriac Mash?
It’s great with roast meats, especially chicken or pork, and also pairs well with rich gravies and vegetables.