Celery is that luxury secondary that any good film should have. Secondary because it is not usually a main ingredient in most recipes, but it accompanies perfectly when we add it to a multitude of recipes, from a cream, to a stew or a salad.
If we observe it closely, we will see that this vegetable is formed by stalks, long and fleshy stems with slight fibrous clefts. These stalks are crowned by tender green leaves that in most cases do not reach the consumer, as they are so delicate that they are normally removed before reaching the point of sale so that they do not spoil the whole piece when they begin to lose vigor.
Celery is a crunchy and fresh vegetable, with a slightly bitter and earthy flavor. It is also a great flavoring agent, so much so that celery essential oil is extracted from its seeds. Among its closest relatives are fennel and parsley.
In the market we usually find two types of celery, mostly green celery and also white celery, which is the one we produce in Peris. We are going to tell you why white celery is our favorite.
Differences between green celery and white celery
Green celery and white celery are two different varieties of celery.
Green celery has a darker green color in its leaves and stalks. It is more robust and fibrous, as well as more bitter in the mouth. It is the most widespread in the market because it is easier to grow.
The white celery has a paler color, its stalks are of a very soft yellow tone, although sometimes they can also tend to pale green. Its flavor is more delicate and sweet. In addition, white celery is more tender, which makes it the most suitable for eating in salads or as a cruditté, as well as in various stews.
These main differences between green celery and white celery are determined by the volume of chlorophyll, much more present in green celery, so that both its color and flavor are much more intense.
As for cultivation, white celery is more delicate to grow than green celery. It requires demanding care, effort and experience to obtain perfect pieces, with white and firm stems. Varieties also play an important role. At Peris we work with those that provide the highest quality, such as the Golden Spartan.
Main properties of celery
Celery is a source of vitamin K and potassium. And both properties are essential for a healthy diet.
Vitamin K contributes to normal blood clotting and to the maintenance of normal bones.
Potassium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, muscles and blood pressure.
Celery is a low-calorie, fat-free food and a source of fiber, which makes it an ideal ingredient to include in a balanced diet.
Here is the nutritional information of celery per 100 grams, according to the scientific committee ‘5 a day’.
- Calories: 10 kcal
- Protein: 0.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Potassium: 305 mg
The healthiest celery recipes
Cooking with celery is an excellent option if you want to add flavor and texture to your recipes. You can use it in many ways, because it adds value and integrates perfectly in soups, stews, salads, stir-fries and much more. White celery will also provide a much more delicate flavor if consumed raw, and in cooked dishes it will be creamier and more integrated.
To cook it, you can cut it into small pieces or slices and sauté it with olive oil and garlic, or add it to a pot of soup or stew for flavor.
Green celery, being more fibrous, may require you to remove the fibers before cooking or eating it raw. With white celery this will not be necessary.
Cream of celery recipe
You can use a touch of celery in just about any cream or puree recipe, but in this one in particular celery is the major player.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups chopped white celery
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup of cooking cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Step by step:
- In a saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic for a few minutes until the onion is transparent.
- Add the white celery and cook for 5 minutes more.
- Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a minimum and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until celery is tender.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Then blend the mixture until smooth.
- If you want to give it a creamier touch, return the cream of celery to the pot and add the cooking cream. As soon as it is integrated you will have your recipe ready.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Celery juice recipe
Celery juice has a slightly salty and herbaceous taste. It is also very quick to make and includes only natural and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 3 sticks of white celery
- 1 green apple with its skin.
- 1 lemon
Wash and cut the celery and apple into small pieces. Squeeze the lemon and add everything to the blender. Blend until smooth and it is ready.
Celery cleansing broth recipe
For those days when you need to purify your body, this celery purifying broth is your best ally. Quick to make, light and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 kilo of white celery
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 liters of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and cut the celery into small pieces.
- Chop the onion and garlic.
- In a large pot, add the ingredients together with the water and bring to a boil.
- We will cook it over low heat for 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Grind the ingredients with a hand blender or blender.
- Strain the broth and add salt and pepper to taste.
- You can drink it either hot or cold.
This celery cleansing broth is a healthy and delicious option that can help eliminate toxins from the body. Enjoy!