Name: Savory Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 large celeriac (peel and chopped); 2 tablespoons shawarma paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for coating); 1 cup red cabbage (thinly sliced); to taste red wine vinegar (for quick pickling); 2 cups self-raising flour (for flatbreads); 1 cup water (for dough); to taste jalapeños (for garnish); 4 tablespoons houmous (for serving); 1 handful fresh coriander (for garnish)

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As the aroma of buttery croissants fills the kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the delightful chaos of the holiday season. This Decadent Croissant Mincemeat Sandwich is the answer to my brunch prayers, combining rich mascarpone with festive mincemeat for a treat that’s as luxurious as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for Christmas morning, these warm, flaky sandwiches radiate comfort and joy, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser for your loved ones. With just a few ingredients and quick steps, this vegetarian recipe invites warmth to the table while giving a fresh twist to a classic holiday tradition. Who could resist the idea of indulging in a sweet breakfast that feels like a special occasion? Ready to savor the season with me?

Why Is This Sandwich So Irresistible?

Luxurious Texture: Each bite delivers a perfect contrast of a crispy croissant exterior and a creamy, indulgent mascarpone filling.

Festive Flavor Fusion: The rich mincemeat mingles beautifully with the warm spices, creating a holiday-inspired delight that’s sure to impress your guests.

Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip these up in a snap, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy the festivities.

Versatile Treat: Not just for brunch! Enjoy this decadent sandwich as a festive snack or dessert, making it a flexible addition to your holiday menu.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This sandwich is bound to be a favorite at your holiday gatherings, attracting everyone with its inviting aroma and stunning presentation.

So, gather your loved ones and experience this delightful twist on a classic treat that honors the spirit of the season!

Croissant Mincemeat Sandwich Ingredients

• Get ready to create a festive delight!

For the Sandwich

All-butter Croissants – The secret to that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture; always choose high-quality croissants.
Butter – Essential for frying; it lends a beautiful golden crisp to the croissants.
Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness and a glossy finish when drizzled over the fried croissants.
Golden Caster Sugar – Enhances sweetness and assists in the caramelization process for extra crunch.

For the Filling

Mascarpone – This rich cheese transforms the sandwich with its creamy, luxurious texture that complements the mincemeat perfectly.
Icing Sugar – Lightens and sweetens the mascarpone mixture, making it a divine filling.
Vanilla Bean Paste – Offers a lovely depth of flavor; feel free to swap it with vanilla extract in a pinch.
Ground Mixed Spice – Infuses the filling with a cozy, aromatic quality reminiscent of Christmas; pumpkin pie spice works well as a substitute.
Orange & Brandy Mincemeat – This festive element adds a tangy sweetness; ensure it’s vegetarian if you’re buying pre-made.

Embrace the holiday spirit with this Croissant Mincemeat Sandwich, perfect for your Christmas brunch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 220°C (425°F). This high temperature is crucial for roasting the celeriac, ensuring it comes out beautifully caramelized and tender. While the oven warms up, gather your other ingredients, so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Prepare the Celeriac
Peel and chop the celeriac into even-sized chunks, about 2.5 cm in diameter for uniform cooking. Toss these pieces in a mixing bowl with shawarma paste and a drizzle of olive oil until they’re well-coated. The vivid spices will infuse the celeriac with flavor, making your gnarly celeriac shawarma unforgettable.

Step 3: Roast the Celeriac
Spread the seasoned celeriac chunks on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Roast the celeriac in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Look for a golden-brown color and tender texture as visual cues for doneness.

Step 4: Quick Pickle the Cabbage
While the celeriac roasts, thinly slice the red cabbage and place it into a bowl. Drizzle with red wine vinegar to taste and mix well. Let this sit to pickle briefly while the celeriac finishes cooking, adding a delightful crunch and brightness to your gnarly celeriac shawarma.

Step 5: Make the Flatbreads
In a large mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour with enough water to create a smooth dough. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s elastic and soft. Divide the dough into small balls, then roll each one out into a thin circle for your flatbreads, preparing them for cooking.

Step 6: Cook the Flatbreads
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each rolled-out flatbread for approximately 1-2 minutes on each side until golden and puffed up. Adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning. Once done, keep the flatbreads warm while you assemble your gnarly celeriac shawarma.

Step 7: Assemble the Shawarma
Take a flatbread and fill it generously with the roasted celeriac from the oven. Add a spoonful of the quick-pickled cabbage, a few sliced jalapeños for a kick, and finish off with a dollop of creamy houmous. Each bite will be a delicious explosion of flavors and textures in your gnarly celeriac shawarma.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle freshly chopped coriander over the assembled shawarma. Serve immediately while everything is warm, encouraging everyone to dive into this vibrant, satisfying dish. Enjoy the delightful combination of earthy celeriac, tangy pickled cabbage, and rich houmous in each bite.

Expert Tips for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Consistency is Key: Cut celeriac into even-sized chunks for uniform roasting. This ensures every piece becomes perfectly caramelized without any raw bits.
Rest the Dough: Allow flatbread dough to rest for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This helps in developing gluten, which leads to a softer texture.
Grill for Extra Flavor: Once cooked, grill the flatbreads briefly for a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. This adds another layer of taste to your gnarly celeriac shawarma.
Pickling Perfection: If time allows, let red cabbage pickle for longer. The deeper flavors enhance the crunch and brightness of your wrap.
Customize Your Spice: Don’t hesitate to adjust the shawarma paste based on your preference. A little extra cumin or a pinch of cayenne can elevate your gnarly celeriac shawarma wonderfully.

What to Serve with Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this richly flavored vegan dish with refreshing sides and delightful drinks.

Creamy Tahini Sauce: A drizzle adds a nutty, rich depth that enhances the flavors of your gnarly celeriac shawarma beautifully.
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: Their crunch and protein boost contrast wonderfully with the tender celeriac, adding delightful texture to your meal.
Zesty Tabbouleh Salad: Fresh parsley, mint, and citrus brighten the plate, offering a refreshing balance to the shawarma’s warmth.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their crispy exterior and soft interior create a fun pairing, perfect for those who enjoy a sweet-savory combo.
Spiced Pickles: Their tangy crunch is an excellent complement to the earthiness of the celeriac, enhancing each bite’s flavor profile.
Chilled Sparkling Water with Lemon: A glass of this refreshing drink cleanses the palate and elevates the overall dining experience.
Pita and Hummus: A side of fluffy pita with creamy hummus keeps the comfort food vibe alive, perfect for dipping!
Middle Eastern Rice: Fluffy rice sprinkled with herbs can soak up any delicious sauces, grounding the meal with additional heartiness.
Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits provides a sweet conclusion to your meal, adding a light and vibrant finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the celeriac up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the flatbreads, prepare the dough and freeze it; when you’re ready to serve, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and roll it out before cooking. The quick-pickled cabbage can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; just ensure it’s in a tightly sealed jar to maintain its crunch. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, reheat the celeriac in a pan until warmed through, and assemble your shawarma fresh for a delightful, hassle-free dining experience!

Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your shawarma by tailoring it to your personal tastes and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Swap self-raising flour for a gluten-free blend for equally fluffy flatbreads.
If you’re looking to accommodate gluten sensitivities, make sure to choose a high-quality blend that binds well.
Spicy Twist: Add more sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for an extra kick.
This allows you to adjust the heat level, creating a fiery version that your taste buds will adore.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil, mint, or dill in place of coriander for different flavor notes.
Herbs can dramatically change the profile of your dish, making it uniquely your own.
Cheesy Option: Add crumbled feta or vegan cheese for a creamy contrast to the roasted celeriac.
The salty notes from the cheese will complement the sweetness of the shawarma beautifully.
Add Veggies: Toss in some roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
These colorful additions introduce more flavors while keeping the dish vibrant and healthy.
Sweetness Factor: Drizzle a bit of agave syrup over the roasted celeriac for a touch of sweetness.
It creates a delightful contrast that balances the spices in your gnarly celeriac shawarma.
Flatbread Fun: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier flatbread or try corn tortillas for a twist.
This not only changes the texture but also imparts a different taste experience with every bite.
Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika to the shawarma paste for an additional layer of depth.
This subtle change can bring a delightful warmth, reminiscent of summer BBQ nights.

Feel inspired to mix and match these variations, ensuring each bite of your gnarly celeriac shawarma is an exciting adventure!

Storage Tips for Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma

Fridge: Store leftover roasted celeriac in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness while retaining the deep flavors of your gnarly celeriac shawarma.
Flatbreads: Prepare flatbreads in advance and freeze them by layering parchment paper between each. They can be kept frozen for up to a month; simply reheat in a dry pan to restore their softness.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the celeriac and flatbreads separately in the oven or a skillet to retain that delightful texture.
Assembly Tips: For the best experience, assemble your shawarma fresh, just before serving. This preserves the crunchy pickled cabbage and the warm, fluffy flatbreads that make this dish truly special.

Gnarly Celeriac Shawarma with Homemade Flatbreads Recipe FAQs

How can I tell if my celeriac is ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting a celeriac, look for a heavy head with firm skin and minimal dark spots. The skin should be smooth without any soft or mushy areas, which indicate spoilage. If it feels light or has a lot of dark spots all over, it may not be fresh.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store leftover roasted celeriac in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This preserves its rich flavors and texture. The flatbreads can be kept at room temperature for a day, but if you have extras, I recommend refrigerating them in a sealed bag to keep them from drying out.

Can I freeze the flatbreads for later use?
Very! To freeze flatbreads, let them cool completely, then stack them with parchment paper between each one to prevent sticking. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a dry pan or oven until warmed through and soft again.

What if my celeriac doesn’t cook evenly?
No worries! If your celeriac doesn’t cook evenly, it usually means the chunks were not cut uniformly. Next time, ensure they’re all about the same size (around 2.5 cm). It also helps to give them a good stir halfway through roasting for an even caramelization.

Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This gnarly celeriac shawarma can be made vegan, provided all sauces and replacements are dairy-free. If you have a gluten allergy, swap the self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to read labels on the shawarma paste to confirm there are no hidden allergens.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Roast the celeriac and make the flatbreads in advance. Store the roasted celeriac in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezer-safe flatbreads to enjoy within a month. When ready to serve, simply reheat everything and assemble. Your meal will still taste fresh and delicious!