
Celery Seed
Celery seed, those tiny, tan-brown ovals, packs a powerful punch of celery flavor in a concentrated form. Unlike celery stalks, celery seed offers an intensely aromatic and slightly bitter taste with a warm, earthy undertone. They are frequently used to add a savory depth to dishes and are a staple in spice cabinets. Visually, celery seeds resemble poppy seeds but possess a distinct celery scent. For those looking for a convenient way to enhance the celery flavor in soups, stews, dressings, and even baked goods, celery seed is an excellent and versatile choice, offering a burst of flavor in a small package. Learn how to use celery seeds to elevate your cooking and discover the many culinary applications of this flavorful spice.
Common Uses
- Celery seed is perfect for flavoring homemade salad dressings. Add a pinch or two to your vinaigrettes or creamy dressings for a subtle celery taste that complements other herbs and spices, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances the overall dressing. Celery seed is a common ingredient in coleslaw dressing and other mayonnaise-based salads.
- Sprinkle celery seed into your favorite soup or stew recipe during the simmering process to infuse the broth with its characteristic celery essence. This is especially useful when you don't have fresh celery on hand or want a more concentrated flavor. Add early in the cooking process to allow the flavor to fully develop. It pairs well with vegetable, chicken, and seafood-based soups.
- Use celery seed to season bread and rolls for a unique and savory twist. Add it directly to the dough before baking to impart a subtle celery flavor throughout the bread. Celery seed complements rye, whole wheat, and sourdough breads particularly well. It can also be sprinkled on top of the bread before baking for a more pronounced flavor and visual appeal.
- Celery seed adds a distinctive flavor to pickling brines for vegetables and other foods. Its complex taste contributes depth and aroma to the brine, making it ideal for pickling cucumbers, onions, peppers, and even meats. Celery seed works well with other pickling spices like mustard seed, dill seed, and peppercorns, resulting in a well-balanced and flavorful pickle.
- Incorporate ground celery seed into dry rubs for meats and poultry for a savory and aromatic crust. Its slightly bitter and earthy notes complement other spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, creating a flavorful blend that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Perfect for grilling, roasting, or smoking meats.
- Season deviled eggs with a dash of celery seed for a classic and flavorful twist. The celery seed adds a subtle, savory note that complements the richness of the egg yolks and the tang of the mayonnaise, creating a well-balanced and delicious deviled egg filling. Celery seed can also be used as a garnish on top of the finished deviled eggs for added visual appeal.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
13.0kcal (0.65%)
Protein
0.6g (1.2%)
Carbs
2.3g (0.84%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
13.0kcal (0.65%)
Protein
0.6g (1.2%)
Carbs
2.3g (0.84%)
Sugars
0.1g (0.2%)
Healthy Fat
0.7g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- May help lower blood pressure due to its diuretic properties.
- Rich in antioxidants, potentially protecting cells from damage.
- Contains anti-inflammatory compounds, offering potential relief from inflammation.
- Source of minerals like calcium, iron, and manganese for overall health.
- May aid in digestion and reduce bloating due to its carminative properties.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
To maximize the shelf life of celery seed, store it in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. An airtight container is recommended to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause clumping and loss of flavor. Ground celery seed will lose its potency faster than whole seeds, so it's best to purchase whole seeds and grind them as needed. When properly stored, celery seed can last for several years.
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