What You Need to Know About Celery
What is Celery?
Celery is a marshland plant in the family, it is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsley, and fennel. Its origins can be traced back to the Mediterranean region, where it was cultivated for its medicinal properties. Celery was introduced to China in the 7th century and eventually made its way to Europe. Today, celery is grown in temperate climates around the world. The cultivation of celery requires a significant amount of water, and the plants are typically started from seedlings that are transplanted into the field. Once established, celery plants will produce stalks for several months before they are harvested. The leaves and stem of the plant are used fresh or dried, and the root can also be eaten raw or cooked. Celery is a low-calorie food that is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet that has been cultivated as a vegetable since antiquity. Celery has a long fibrous stalk tapering into leaves. Depending on location and cultivar, either its stalks, leaves, or hypocotyl are eaten and used in cooking. Celery seed powder is used as a spice. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this versatile veggie, including its nutritional benefits and some of the best ways to enjoy it. Read on to learn everything there is to know about celery!
What is the history of Celery? Where did it come from?
Its origins can be traced back to the Mediterranean region, where it was cultivated for its medicinal properties. Celery was introduced to China in the 7th century and eventually made its way to Europe. Today, celery is grown in temperate climates around the world. The cultivation of celery requires a significant amount of water, and the plants are typically started from seedlings that are transplanted into the field. Once established, celery plants will produce stalks for several months before they are harvested. The leaves and stem of the plant are used fresh or dried, and the root can also be eaten raw or cooked. Celery is a low-calorie food that is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
Varieties of Celery
1. Celery is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsley, and fennel.
2. There are two main types of celery: Pascal celery and leaf celery.
3. Pascal celery, also known as white or yellow celery, is the most common type of celery found in supermarkets. It has a long, white stalk and crisp texture. Leaf celery, also known as Chinese or red celery, has a shorter stalk and is often used in Asian cuisine. It has a milder flavor than Pascal celery and a slightly rubbery texture.
4. Celeriac, or knob celery, is another type of celery that is grown for its edible root. Celeriac looks like a small, gnarled turnip and has a mild, earthy flavor.
5. Celery leaves can also be eaten and are often used as an herb or garnish. They have a strong, pungent flavor and can be used in place of parsley or other herbs in recipes.
6. Celery is a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. It is low in calories and fat-free.
7. Celery can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used as a base for soups and stews or as a crunchy addition to salads.
8. Celery should be stored in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks.
9. When buying celery, look for stalks that are firm and crisp with bright green leaves. Avoid stalks that are wilted or have brown spots
What are the Claimed Health Benefits of Celery
Celery is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that offers a variety of health benefits. For example, celery contains compounds that can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Additionally, the antioxidants in celery can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can contribute to inflammation and disease. Celery is also a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Fiber promotes regularity and helps keep you feeling full after eating. What’s more, fiber may also reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Thanks to its impressive nutrient profile, celery provides a number of important health benefits.
1. Celery is a good source of vitamins and minerals
Celery is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. It also contains small amounts of other nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
2. Celery is low in calories
Celery is low in calories, with only 16 calories in a cup (100 grams) of chopped celery. This makes it a great food for people trying to lose weight or maintain their weight.
3. Celery contains antioxidants
Celery contains antioxidants, which are compounds that can help to protect the body against disease. The most abundant antioxidant in celery is luteolin, which has been linked to a variety of health benefits.
4. Celery may improve heart health
The luteolin in celery may help to improve heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure. Additionally, the fiber in celery can help to reduce cholesterol levels.
5. Celery may boost cognitive function
The luteolin in celery may also help to boost cognitive function by protecting the brain from damage and improving blood flow to the brain. Additionally, the antioxidants in celery can help to protect the brain from oxidative stress.
6. Celery may lower cancer risk
The antioxidants in celery may help to lower cancer risk by protecting cells from damage and reducing inflammation. Additionally, the luteolin in celery has been shown to kill cancer cells in test-tube studies. However, it is important to note that more research is needed before any conclusions can be made about the effects of celery on cancer risk in humans.
7. Celery may aid digestion
The fiber in celery can help to promote regularity and prevent constipation. Additionally, the water content in celery can help to keep the digestive tract hydrated and functioning properly.
8. Celery may promote weight loss
Celery is low in calories and high in fiber, both of which are beneficial for weight loss. Additionally, the water content in celery can help to reduce appetite and promote fullness after meals.
List the Micronutrients and Macronutrients of Celery
Celery is a low-calorie food that is rich in nutrients. Just one cup of chopped celery contains 8 calories, 2 grams of carbohydrate (including 1 gram of fiber), 0 grams of fat, and 0 grams of protein. Celery is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and potassium. The vitamin K in celery helps to maintain bone health, while the vitamin C helps to boost immunity. The potassium in celery helps to regulate blood pressure, and the fiber helps to promote digestive health. In addition, celery is a good source of manganese, which is essential for metabolism.
1. Water: 95.4%
2. Energy: 16 kJ (4 kcal)
3. Carbohydrates: 0.9 g
4. Sugars: 0.6 g
5. Dietary fiber: 1.6 g
6. Fat: 0.1 g
7. Protein: 0.3 g
8. Thiamin (B1): 0 mg (0%)
9. Riboflavin (B2): 0 mg (0%)
10. Niacin (B3): 0 mg (0%)
11. Pantothenic acid (B5): 0 mg (0%)
12. Vitamin B6: 0 mg (0%)
13. Folate (B9): 9 μg (2%)
14. Choline: 7 mg (1%)
15. Vitamin C: 4 mg (5%)
Tips on how to select Celery
1. Look for crisp, green stalks.
2. Avoid celery that is yellowing or has brown spots.
3. Choose celery that is firm to the touch.
4. Avoid celery that is wilted or limp.
5. Check the ends of the celery stalks for signs of mold or decay.
6. Cut off any brown or moldy parts before using the celery.
7. Store celery in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp paper towel.
8. Use celery within a few days of purchase for the best flavor and quality.
9. Celery can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced.
10. Celery can be used in a variety of recipes, such as soups, stews, salads, and stir-fries.
11. Celery leaves can also be used in recipes, such as pesto or soup
Tips on how to store Celery
1. Do not wash celery until you are ready to use it.
2. Cut off any brown or yellow leaves.
3. Place celery in a plastic bag or container with a lid.
4. Store celery in the refrigerator crisper drawer.
5. Do not store celery next to fruits or vegetables that give off ethylene gas, such as apples, bananas, and tomatoes.
6. Use celery within one week for best quality.
7. To extend the shelf life of celery, place it in a jar of water and store it in the refrigerator.
8. Change the water every few days and use the celery within two weeks.
9. You can also store celery in the freezer for up to six months.
10. To freeze celery, wash and chop it into desired pieces, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
11. Label the bag or container with the date and use within six months for best quality
Tips on how to prepare Celery
1. Rinse the celery in cold water. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may be on the celery.
2. Cut off the ends of the celery. You can either discard these or save them for another use.
3. Cut the celery into thin slices. The thinner the slices, the easier they will be to eat.
4. Place the celery in a bowl of ice water. This will help to keep it crisp.
5. Add a dressing of your choice to the celery. Some popular options include ranch dressing, vinaigrette, or Caesar dressing.
6. Serve the celery as a side dish or appetizer.
How to Enjoy Celery
Celery is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are some ideas:
- Add celery to soups or stews for extra flavor and crunch.
- Enjoy celery sticks with your favorite dip or spread as a healthy snack.
- Chop celery up and add it to salads or grain bowls for added nutrition.
- Use celery leaves as herbs in recipes or garnish dishes with them before serving.
- Roast celery in the oven with other vegetables for a delicious side dish.
- Juice celery with other fruits and vegetables for a refreshing drink.
- Make homemade celery salt by blending together equal parts salt and ground celery seed powder. Add this seasoning to roasted meats or vegetables for extra flavor.
Popular recipes made with Celery
1. Celery Soup
Celery soup is a hearty and filling soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. The soup is made with celery, potatoes, carrots, and onions, and is typically served with a dollop of sour cream or croutons.
2. Celery Salad
Celery salad is a light and refreshing salad that is perfect for a summer picnic. The salad is made with celery, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, and is typically dressed with a vinegar and oil dressing.
3. Celery Stir-Fry
Celery stir-fry is a quick and easy way to add some extra vegetables to your diet. The stir-fry is made with celery, mushrooms, peppers, and onions, and can be served over rice or noodles.
4. Celery Juice
Celery juice is a healthy and refreshing way to start your day. The juice is made with celery, apples, ginger, and lemon, and can be enjoyed on its own or diluted with water.
5. Celery Risotto
Celery risotto is a creamy and flavorful dish that makes a great side dish or main course. The risotto is made with celery, rice, Parmesan cheese, and butter, and can be served with chicken or fish.
6. Celery Slaw
Celery slaw is a crunchy and flavorful addition to any sandwich or burger. The slaw is made with celery, cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise, and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish.
7. Curried Celery Soup
Curried celery soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that gets its heat from the addition of curry powder. The soup is made with celery, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, and ginger
Interesting, little-known, trivia, and fun facts about Celery
1. Celery is a member of the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots, parsley, and fennel.
2. The scientific name for celery is Apium graveolens.
3. Celery is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for over 3,000 years.
4. Celery was introduced to North America in the early 1600s by European settlers.
5. Celery is a biennial plant, meaning that it takes two years to complete its life cycle.
6. Celery is grown for its edible stalks, leaves, and seeds.
7. The United States is the largest producer of celery in the world, followed by China and Mexico.
8. California produces the majority of celery grown in the United States.
9. There are two main types of celery: Pascal celery and leaf celery. Pascal celery is the type most often found in supermarkets, while leaf celery is more commonly used in Asian cuisine.
10. Celery is low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamins A and C.
11. Celery can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used as a flavoring ingredient in soups, stews, and other dishes
Images from Wikipedia
Recent Comments