Celery root substitutes
Celery root substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Parsnips
Same amount as the celery root
Root vegetable with similar starchy texture and mild sweetness.
The best substitutes for celery root are parsnips, turnips, potatoes, or a combination of celery and potatoes depending on the dish.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- roasting
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of celery root | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Parsnipsroasting | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Turnipsroasting | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Potatoesmashing | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Celery + potatoessoups | Same amountHalf of eachWorks | Works |
| 5 | Kohlrabiroasting | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | Rutabagaroasting | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Parsnips
similar taste and texture
Root vegetable with similar starchy texture and mild sweetness.
- Best for
- roasting, mashing, soups, purees
Similar starchy texture and mild flavor.
Turnips
different taste, similar texture
Root vegetable with similar texture and mild flavor.
- Best for
- roasting, mashing, soups, purees
Similar texture but slightly different flavor.
Potatoes
different taste, similar texture
Starchy vegetable with similar texture when cooked.
- Best for
- mashing, roasting, soups, purees
Similar starchy texture but different flavor.
Celery + potatoes
similar taste and texture
Combination that approximates celery root's flavor and texture.
- Best for
- soups, purees, mashing, roasting
Combines celery flavor with potato texture.
Kohlrabi
similar taste and texture
Bulbous vegetable with similar mild flavor and texture.
- Best for
- roasting, mashing, soups, purees
Similar mild flavor and starchy texture.
Rutabaga
different taste, similar texture
Root vegetable with similar starchy texture.
- Best for
- roasting, mashing, soups, purees
Similar texture but slightly different flavor.
Questions
4 questionsWhat does celery root taste like?
Celery root has a mild, earthy flavor with hints of celery. It's starchy and slightly sweet when cooked, similar to a potato but with a more complex flavor.
How do I prepare celery root?
Peel the knobby exterior with a sharp knife, then cut into desired pieces. It can be roasted, boiled, mashed, or added to soups and stews.
Can I use celery root raw?
Yes, celery root can be eaten raw when grated or julienned. It's often used in salads and slaws for its crisp texture and mild flavor.
Is celery root the same as celeriac?
Yes, celery root and celeriac are the same vegetable. It's also sometimes called knob celery or turnip-rooted celery.
Tips for substituting celery root
6 tips- Celery root has a knobby exterior that needs to be peeled
- The flesh is white and starchy when cooked
- Great for roasting, mashing, or adding to soups
- Has a mild celery flavor that's not overpowering
- Pairs well with herbs like thyme and rosemary
- Store in cool, dark place like other root vegetables