Skip to main content

Celery Root Purée

This silky celeriac purée is a sophisticated alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, offering a delicate, nutty flavour that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or seasonal vegetables. By simmering the celeriac and potato in a mixture of milk and water, the vegetables take on a rich, creamy consistency while keeping their bright, clean taste. It is an understated yet elegant vegetarian side dish that brings a touch of refinement to any dinner table.

Perfect for entertaining, this versatile purée can be prepared up to a day in advance and gently reheated before serving. The addition of a little onion provides a subtle savoury depth, while the fresh chives add a pop of colour and a mild onion note. Serve it alongside a Sunday roast or as a base for pan-fried fish for a restaurant-quality finish at home.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Celery Root Purée

  • 725ml whole milk

  • 725ml water

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 2 large celery roots (about 1.1kg total), peeled, cut into 2-inch cubes

  • 1 medium russet potato (about 275g ), peeled, cut into 2-inch cubes

  • 1 small onion, peeled, quartered

  • 5 tablespoons butter, cut into 5 pieces

  • Ground white pepper

  • Chopped fresh chives

How to make Celery Root Purée

Bring milk, water, and salt just to boil in heavy large saucepan over high heat. Add celery root cubes, potato cubes, and onion quarters; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes. Drain, discarding cooking liquid.

Combine vegetables and butter in processor and puree until smooth. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. Do ahead Celery root puree can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm in microwave before serving.

Transfer celery root puree to bowl. Sprinkle with chopped fresh chives and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.