New Way of Eating Them Spuds!!

One of my favorite side dishes this year for Thanksgiving was mashed potatoes with celery root. For quite a few years now I've seen and/or heard about this combination being absolutely majestic together and so finally, my mom and I broke it out and gave it a whirl.

I am hooked. It is really quite a unique but subtle fusion of the two textures and flavors. We added about a 1 tsp of minced fresh thyme to it (chives are also a good option) and it sealed the deal! The celery root, much to my surprise, is totally easy to work with- treat it like any other root vegetable with only requiring a tiny bit of TLC in it's prep- say, some peeling, some chopping, and wala!!! Use a chef's knife too in cutting.

At any rate, this recipe from Martha Stewart is a good guide to follow, though we kind of winged the measurements in our kitchen. Whipping cream is a desired preferable option, not make or break deal. The butter, however, is a must. What are any mashed potatoes without it? Bland and lackluster.

And don't shy away from making this for your Xmas holidays party. I think this is perfectly winter-appropriate all season long!

Mashed Potatoes and Celery Root

{loosely adapted from Martha Stewart}

4 pounds Yukon gold potatoes

1 pound celery root

1 cup heavy cream

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon coarse salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Fresh thyme, minced (Optional), or Chives, chopped

Peel potatoes, and cut into 1-inch pieces. Peel celery root using a paring knife, following the shape of the root. Cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Place potatoes and celery root in a small stockpot with enough water to cover, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a simmer, and cook until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain, return to pot; place over low heat to dry out.

Combine cream, butter, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan, and place over medium heat until butter is melted and mixture comes to a simmer. Pour over potato mixture, and combine, using a potato masher, until fluffy and smooth.

Add choice herb for garnish.