How To Keep Celery Fresh And Crisp For Longer/growing Celery YouTube

Cover How to Choose & Store Celery My Fearless Kitchen (600x1500)

Table of Contents

• What are the benefits of celery?
• How do you clean celery?
• What is the best way to store celery?
• Can you freeze celery?
• How can you tell if celery has gone bad?

What are the benefits of celery?

Celery is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, making it an excellent choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet. Here are some of the top benefits of celery:

1. Helps with digestion

Celery contains a high amount of dietary fiber, which can help to keep your digestive system healthy and regular. It can help to prevent constipation, bloating, and other digestive issues.

2. Lowers blood pressure

Celery contains compounds called phthalides, which can help to relax the muscles in the walls of your blood vessels. This can help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease.

3. Reduces inflammation

Celery contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation throughout your body. This can help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as arthritis, cancer, and diabetes.

4. Supports healthy skin

Celery contains vitamins and minerals that are important for healthy skin, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. These nutrients can help to keep your skin looking youthful and radiant.

5. Boosts immune system

Celery is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that can help to boost your immune system and protect against infections and diseases.

How do you clean celery?

Cleaning celery is an important step in preparing it for consumption. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean celery:

1. Rinse the celery

Hold the celery under cool running water and rinse it thoroughly. Make sure to rinse both the outer stalks and the inner leaves.

2. Cut off the ends

Use a sharp knife to cut off the ends of the celery stalks, including any brown or discolored parts.

3. Remove any dirt or debris

Use a vegetable brush or your fingers to gently scrub the celery stalks and remove any dirt or debris that may be stuck to them.

4. Dry the celery

Use a clean towel or paper towel to pat the celery dry. Make sure to remove any excess water, as this can cause the celery to become soggy.

What is the best way to store celery?

Properly storing celery is important to ensure that it stays fresh and crisp for as long as possible. Here are some tips on how to store celery:

1. Keep it in the refrigerator

Celery should be stored in the refrigerator, either in the vegetable drawer or in a plastic bag. Make sure to remove any excess air from the bag before sealing it, as this can cause the celery to become limp.

2. Keep it dry

Moisture can cause celery to become soggy and wilted. To keep your celery fresh, make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it in the refrigerator.

3. Use a damp cloth

If your celery has already wilted, you can try to revive it by wrapping it in a damp cloth and storing it in the refrigerator for a few hours.

4. Don't wash it before storing

While it may be tempting to wash your celery before storing it, this can actually cause it to become moldy and spoil faster. Instead, wait to wash it until just before you are ready to use it.

Can you freeze celery?

While it is possible to freeze celery, it is not recommended. Freezing can cause the celery to become mushy and lose its texture and flavor. If you have too much celery and don't think you will be able to use it all before it goes bad, try incorporating it into soups, stews, or other dishes that can be frozen.

How can you tell if celery has gone bad?

It is important to be able to recognize when your celery has gone bad, as consuming spoiled celery can lead to food poisoning. Here are some signs that your celery may have gone bad:

1. Discoloration

If your celery has turned brown or has other discoloration, it is likely no longer fresh.

2. Sliminess

If your celery feels slimy or sticky to the touch, it is likely starting to spoil.

3. Unpleasant smell

If your celery has a strong or unpleasant odor, it is likely no longer fresh.

4. Softness

If your celery feels soft or mushy, it is likely starting to spoil.

5. Mold

If you see any mold on your celery, it should be thrown away immediately.

Conclusion

Celery is a nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your celery stays fresh and crisp for as long as possible. Whether you are looking to improve your digestion, lower your blood pressure, reduce inflammation, or simply enjoy a healthy snack, celery is a great choice.