Creamy Celery Root & Cauliflower Mash with Crispy Brussels Sprout Leaves

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees, setting the stage for a delightful culinary adventure.

2. Sauté Leeks

Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is shimmering, add the chopped leeks. Sauté them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become tender and aromatic, creating a flavorful base for your mash.

3. Sauté Vegetables

Next, add the diced celery root, cauliflower florets, and Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot. Season the mixture with a tablespoon of kosher salt and a teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the leeks and seasoning.

4. Simmer Vegetables

Pour in the three cups of half-and-half, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts to bubble, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This process tenderizes the vegetables and infuses them with a creamy richness. You'll know they are ready when they can be easily pierced with a fork.

5. Prepare Brussels Sprout Leaves

While the vegetables are simmering, prepare the Brussels sprout leaves. Remove the cores from the Brussels sprouts and carefully peel off the outer leaves. Toss these leaves with two tablespoons of olive oil and a teaspoon of salt. Spread them out on a sheet pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are crisp and slightly browned.

6. Purée Vegetables

Once the vegetables are tender, transfer them to a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Process the mixture until it is coarsely puréed, retaining a bit of texture for a more rustic feel. Return the purée to the pot and stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Season with an additional two teaspoons of salt and a teaspoon of pepper, adjusting to taste. Reheat the mash over low heat until it is warmed through.

7. Serve

To serve, transfer the creamy mash to a serving dish. Drizzle a bit of good olive oil over the top for an extra touch of flavor. Finally, sprinkle the crispy Brussels sprout leaves on top, adding a delightful crunch to each bite. Enjoy this comforting and elegant dish with your favorite main course.