1Peel the celery root and place it in a pot with water, soy sauce, cinnamon, star anise, and celery leaves. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until softened but still firm.
2Preheat the oven to 220°C (turbo). In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and thyme. After 2 minutes, stir in coriander seeds, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and sugar. Cook for another 2 minutes.
3Pour in the water and let it evaporate, forming a light caramel. Add the red wine and let it reduce for 5-6 minutes until slightly thickened.
4Place the celery root in an ovenproof dish and coat generously with the sauce. Roast for 30 minutes, basting with more sauce every 10 minutes until deeply caramelized and golden.
5Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly like pastrami. Drizzle with extra sauce and enjoy.