Name: Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma: Flavorful Vegan Delight at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 whole Celeriac (600g; can substitute with cauliflower or portobello mushrooms); 2 heaped tablespoons Shawarma Paste (homemade or store-bought); Red Wine Vinegar (to taste; can substitute with apple cider vinegar); ¼ Red Cabbage (300g; green cabbage can be used as an alternative); 1 jar Sliced Jalapeños (300g; adjust quantity to taste); 300 g Self-Raising Flour (plus extra for dusting; all-purpose can be used with baking powder); Olive Oil (to taste; can use other oils for different flavors); ½ bunch Fresh Coriander (15g; parsley can be used as a substitute); 4 tablespoons Houmous (store-bought or homemade)

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Walking through the vibrant market, I stumbled upon a stunning celeriac, its rugged exterior hinting at the deliciousness hidden within. That moment sparked my passion for creating a dish that’s both wholesome and packed with flavor—enter my Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma! This incredible recipe takes this often-overlooked vegetable and transforms it into a show-stopping centerpiece, perfectly roasted and infused with aromatic shawarma spices. Paired with soft, fluffy homemade flatbreads and a zesty sauce, it’s a delightful comfort food that happens to be vegan-friendly and good for you! Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser that can impress even the pickiest eaters, but it’s also quick to whip up, making it ideal for a weeknight meal. Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with this unexpected twist on a classic? Let’s dive in!

Why is Celeriac Shawarma a Must-Try?

Unique, Flavorful Profile: The Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma transforms ordinary celeriac into a flavor-packed delight that surprises and satisfies.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a hearty meal in under an hour—not to mention, it’s a great way to shake up your weeknight dinner routine.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This dish wows both vegans and carnivores alike, ensuring everyone at the table is happy!
Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to substitute or add your favorite toppings and sauces for a personalized touch—think tahini or yogurt for creaminess.
Health-Conscious Comfort: Each serving is loaded with nutrients, making it a nutritious comfort food option you can feel good about. Can’t get enough of bold flavors? You might also enjoy our recipes for Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Tacos or Zesty Chickpea Salad!

Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma Ingredients

For the Celeriac

Celeriac (1 whole, 600g) – The star of the dish, giving depth and texture; you can substitute it with cauliflower or portobello mushrooms if desired.
Shawarma Paste (2 heaped tablespoons) – Packed with bold, spicy flavors that elevate the celeriac; both homemade and store-bought options work beautifully.
Red Wine Vinegar (to taste) – Adds necessary acidity to balance the richness; feel free to swap in apple cider vinegar for a milder taste.

For the Pickle

Red Cabbage (¼, 300g) – Provides a crunchy, tangy component that brightens the dish; green cabbage is a suitable alternative if you’re out.
Sliced Jalapeños (1 x 300g jar) – Offers a kick of heat; adjust the quantity to suit your spice tolerance.

For the Flatbreads

Self-Raising Flour (300g, plus extra for dusting) – Ensures soft, fluffy flatbreads, making a wonderful base for your shawarma; you can use all-purpose flour with added baking powder.
Olive Oil (to taste) – Enhances flavor and texture; play around with different oils if you want a unique twist.

For Serving

Fresh Coriander (½ bunch, 15g) – A refreshing garnish that beautifully complements the dish; parsley works as a suitable substitute.
Houmous (4 tablespoons) – Adds creaminess and richness; enjoy store-bought for convenience, or whip up your own at home for a flavorful boost.

Prepare to indulge in this vibrant Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma, where flavors and textures unite for a truly satisfying meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will ensure your celeriac has a perfect roasting space, enhancing its flavors as it caramelizes.

Step 2: Prepare the Celeriac
Carefully peel the celeriac and cut it into wedges. In a bowl, coat the wedges with shawarma paste, ensuring they are evenly covered. Place the coated celeriac on the prepared baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized with a beautiful golden hue.

Step 3: Make the Flatbread Dough
While the celeriac is roasting, combine the self-raising flour, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil in a mixing bowl. Gradually add water and mix until a soft dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for a minute, then cover with a cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out.

Step 4: Cook the Flatbreads
Divide the rested dough into small balls and roll each into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat, and cook each flatbread for 1-2 minutes on each side or until they puff up and turn golden. Stack the cooked flatbreads on a plate covered with a kitchen towel to keep them warm and soft.

Step 5: Quick Pickle the Cabbage
While the flatbreads cook, thinly slice the red cabbage. In a small bowl, toss the cabbage with red wine vinegar and a sprinkle of salt, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. This quick pickling adds a refreshing crunch and tanginess that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma.

Step 6: Assemble the Shawarma
Once the celeriac is roasted to perfection, it’s time to assemble your shawarma! Place a generous amount of roasted celeriac onto each flatbread, layer with the pickled cabbage, sliced jalapeños, and sprinkle fresh coriander on top. For an extra creamy touch, spread some houmous on the flatbread before adding the toppings.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your delicious Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma warm, with any remaining jalapeños and sauce on the side. This hearty dish not only brings together vibrant flavors but also creates a festive atmosphere at your dining table, inviting everyone to dig in and savor every bite.

Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful dish and make it your own, enhancing the flavors and textures to suit your taste!

Cauliflower Twist: Substitute celeriac with cauliflower for a lighter, equally satisfying shawarma that captures the essence of the original. The roasted cauliflower will create a unique and delightful texture.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh chilies to the mix for an extra layer of heat, or sprinkle in some red chili flakes for added spice. Your taste buds will thank you!
Creamy Avocado: Instead of houmous, spread ripe avocado on your flatbread for an incredibly creamy and rich alternative. It pairs beautifully with the roasted celeriac, adding a delightful twist.
Texture Boost: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Their nuttiness will complement the spices beautifully—plus, they add a nutritious kick!
Vegan Cream Cheese: Swap houmous for a flavorful vegan cream cheese spread for a deliciously creamy and tangy contrast that works harmoniously with all the other components!
Herb Infusion: Change up the garnish by using fresh mint or dill instead of coriander for a refreshing flavor journey. It will brighten the dish and offer a delightful surprise!
Pickled Red Onions: Elevate your pickle game by adding some pickled red onions for tangy sweetness. Their vibrant color adds visual appeal as well, making the dish even more enticing.
Taste of the Mediterranean: Replace the shawarma paste with a mix of za’atar and sumac for a Mediterranean twist that completely transforms the flavor profile—think tangy, herby heaven!

Can’t get enough of customization? You might also love to explore our recipes for Herbed Quinoa Salad or Roasted Chickpea Tacos!

Expert Tips for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Uniform Cutting: Ensure uniform celeriac wedges to guarantee even cooking. Uneven pieces may result in some being undercooked while others burn.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the flatbreads while cooking to prevent burning. Adjust the heat if necessary to achieve that perfect golden color.
Advanced Pickling: For a deeper flavor, pickle the red cabbage a few hours or a day ahead of time. This enhances its tanginess and complements your Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma beautifully.
Dough Rest Time: Don’t skip the resting period for the flatbread dough. Allowing it to rest makes rolling easier and improves the texture of the final product.
Taste the Sauce: Customize your spicy sauce! Taste and adjust the heat level by varying the amount of jalapeños or adding other spices to suit your palate.
Serve Warm: Serve both the flatbreads and the celeriac warm for the best experience, ensuring each bite is full of comforting flavors.

Storage Tips for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy the Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma right after assembly. If you need to store it, keep it at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover roasted celeriac and flatbreads in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roasted celeriac and flatbreads separately in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat the celeriac in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, and warm the flatbreads on a pan for a couple of minutes until they’re soft and pliable.

What to Serve with Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Delight in a full meal experience that beautifully complements the robust flavors of your shawarma, enticing every sense.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Their golden, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior create a satisfying contrast, enhancing the shawarma’s tender textures.
Fresh Tabbouleh Salad: This bright, herbaceous salad brings a refreshing crunch, balancing out the hearty and spiced flavors of your dish.
Spicy Lentil Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of soup adds depth and richness, making your meal feel complete and cozy on cooler days.
Tangy Cucumber Yogurt Sauce: This cooling sauce contrasts with the shawarma’s spices, making each bite harmoniously delightful and fresh.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Smoky and charred veggies offer a delightful and colorful addition, providing various textures that complement the shawarma nicely.
Homemade Pickles: Adding a zingy crunch to each bite, pickles enhance the overall flavor profile and provide a fun textural contrast.
Pita Chips with Hummus: Perfect for dipping, these crispy chips paired with creamy hummus create an inviting appetizer that excites the palate before the main event.
Zesty Lemonade: This refreshing beverage pairs perfectly, cleansing the palate and complementing the shawarma’s spiced layers.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, fruity white wine enhances the meal’s experience, tying the flavors together beautifully while providing a touch of indulgence.
Dark Chocolate Mousse: To finish on a sweet note, this rich dessert offers a luscious end to an unforgettable meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma bites are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the celeriac wedges coated in shawarma paste up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. The pickled red cabbage can also be made ahead and stored for 3 days for enhanced flavor—just keep it sealed in the fridge. To finish, roast the celeriac as directed and cook the flatbreads fresh before serving. This way, you can enjoy a delightful meal with all the delectable flavors while cutting down on prep time!

Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma Recipe FAQs

How do I choose a ripe celeriac?
Absolutely! When selecting celeriac, look for a bulb that feels heavy for its size with a firm, unblemished skin. Avoid any with dark spots or soft areas, as they can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store leftover roasted celeriac and flatbreads separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep both components fresh—just be sure to reheat gently before serving to maintain their wonderful textures.

Can I freeze the Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma?
Of course! For longer storage, freeze the roasted celeriac and flatbreads separately in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm the celeriac in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, and heat flatbreads on a pan for a couple of minutes until soft.

What if my celeriac is unevenly cooked?
No worries! If you notice that some pieces are undercooked while others are caramelized, you can slice the larger pieces in half for more even cooking or simply return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until all pieces are tender and golden.

Are there any allergies to watch out for with this recipe?
Definitely! While this dish is naturally vegan, be cautious about allergens. If you’re serving it to guests, double-check if anyone has allergies to ingredients like nuts (in houmous if made from certain recipes) or vinegar. Also, jalapeños can be spicy for some, so keep that in mind for those sensitive to heat.

Can I customize the toppings?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add or swap toppings as you like—fresh tomatoes, sliced avocados, or even feta cheese for a non-vegan option are all delicious alternatives. Experimenting is half the fun of cooking!