Baking root vegetables in salt draws out moisture and imparts rich and deep flavor.

From the Ground Up: An Intro to Root Vegetables
Discover the delicious versatility of edible roots through this user-friendly course, featuring simple techniques, essential recipes, and other creative applications.
Course Preview
Course Details
Tutorials in this course: 18
Total viewing time: 1 hour 36 minutes
Total course time (including prep and cooking): 12 hours
With the
exception of a few familiar favorites, root vegetables tend to be overlooked and underappreciated by most home chefs. While these irregularly
shaped, dirty, and dense vegetables can be intimidating to work with, they are
also highly versatile and packed with nutrients. All it takes is some bravery and a
little know-how to transform these underground underdogs into your new favorite
ingredient.
This course is
a user-friendly introduction to making the most of root vegetables. Learn about
different varieties and the simplest ways to prepare them, as well as more
creative and complex applications. From traditional Italian mashed potatoes to
ginger-infused crème brûlée, the tutorials in this course will
provide all the information you need to feel comfortable exploring this
versatile vegetable group.
Chef Instructors
Chef Daniel Holzman is the executive chef and co-owner of The Meatball Shop in New York City. Chef Daniel trained at many of the country's finest restaurants before mastering the art of the perfect meatball, a skill which is showcased in his restaurants around the city.
Chef Vartan Abgarayan is the executive chef at Cliff's Edge in Los Angeles. With a thoughtful approach to Mediterranean flavors and a masterful touch with seafood, Chef Vartan has wowed visitors of Cliff's Edge since 2012.
Chef Gabriel Rosen owns and operates popular Portland izakaya, Biwa, and sister ramen and juice restaurant, Noraneko. Biwa’s great success inspired an influx of Japanese ramen shops in Portland. In 2015, Chef Gabriel opened his own ramen restaurant, Noraneko where he serves infinitely customizable ramen and house made kombucha and juices.
Chef Bryon Freeze is the executive chef at Tar and Roses in Los Angeles. Chef Bryon burst into the culinary spotlight when he won "Chef Wanted," a chef competition show on the Food Network.
Kevin Meehan is the executive chef and brains behind Kali Dining, an underground, pop-up, gourmet dinner party hosted in Los Angeles. Kali Dining brings strangers together in an intimate setting to enjoy the fruits of Meehan’s labor. Venues vary, as does the menu, so diners can always expect a surprise. Kali Dining has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, LA Weekly, and Eater LA, and has grabbed the attention of LA foodies. It has received rave reviews within the community, boasting five stars on Yelp and a perfect 100% Urbanspoon score.
Simon Majumdar, a Judge on Iron Chef America, the Next Iron Chef, and Cutthroat Kitchen, is also a celebrated writer and world traveler, using his relationship with food to tell inspirational stories of eating and adventure.
At just 24 years old, Kwame has already made a name for himself within the culinary community. His Nigerian lineage combined with his refined, fine dining skills makes for an eclectic and exciting dining experience.
John-Carlos Kuramoto is the head chef at Santa Monica’s venerable institution, Michael’s, where Kuramoto has gained a reputation for delivering high-end contemporary American dishes with a modern California flair. He also recently appeared on “Knife Fight,” a chef competition show on the Esquire Network.
Chef Gianfranco Minuz is an Italian native and proud purveyor of Northern Italian cuisine. He earned his first Michelin star at his own restaurant Ca’Masierei in Trissino, Italy. Chef Gianfranco now works in Santa Monica but previously worked as the executive chef at Trattoria Tre Venezie in Pasadena, where he earned his second Michelin star.
Chef Alex was formally trained at the Western Culinary Institute in Portland and has worked in the kitchen at popular Asian Fusion restaurant, Saucebox for several years. He worked closely with chefs Gregory Gourdet and Jason Neroni before rising to Executive Chef in 2011.
Chef Jason Travi's food is a fresh reflection of his Italian heritage, New England upbringing, French culinary training, and Southern California location, all with a strong dose of modern comfort.
Chef Sandy Gendel is the owner and head chef at the Los Angeles restaurant, Pace ("peace" in Italian), where he presents the best of rustic Italian cuisine with local and organic ingredients.
Chef Christian Page is the executive chef at Short Order in Los Angeles. His innovative and ingredient-driven approach towards cooking provides diners with carefully crafted and uniquely delicious meals.
What You Need
Equipment
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Hotel pan
- Baking pan
- Oven-safe container
- Large nonstick pan
- Deep pot for frying
- Small saucepan
- Medium saucepan
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor
- Blender
- Smoking gun
- Wood chips
- Crème brûlée ramekins
- Water pitcher
- Kitchen torch
- Cedar plank
- Mesh strainer
- Wire skimmer
- Wooden spoon
- Metal spoon
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Vegetable peeler
- Mandolin
- Microplane grater
- Kitchen towel
- Plastic wrap
- Aluminum foil
- Disposable gloves
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- Ingredients are listed within each respective tutorial.