He used to be known only for being finely chopped in Bolognese sauce or as a soup green. Today, celery is an absolute global star. Thanks to the "Celery Juice" trend, Hollywood stars and health-conscious individuals drink a glass of the green gold every morning. Rightly so? Absolutely! Because the crisp stalks are extremely low in calories and act as true cleansing agents for your body. Find out why you should get used to its special taste here.
What you should know about celery
When we talk about the trendy juicing vegetable, we mean green celery (not the celeriac root). Its local season runs from August to March. During this time, the stalks are particularly crisp and aromatic.
It consists largely of water and strong fibers, which gives it its characteristic "crunch."
Nutrients & Effect
Celery is every nutrition coach's dream. It is extremely low in calories (only 16 kcal per 100g!) and perfect for weight loss.
However, its true strength lies in its healing properties: celery lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. It is rich in potassium, which is important for muscles and nerves. It is also considered detoxifying and is particularly good for the liver, as it helps flush out toxins. It is a must for acid-base balance, as it is strongly alkaline-forming.
Taste & Consistency
This is where opinions differ: celery has a very strong inherent taste – spicy, tart, and slightly salty. You either love it or hate it. The consistency is very fibrous and crunchy.
An important warning from your overview: celery has a high allergenic potential. It is one of the main allergens and can trigger reactions in sensitive people (e.g., those with cross-allergies to pollen).
Preparation with kitchen appliances
Celery is made for your modern kitchen helpers:
- Slow Juicer / Juicer: This is its main area of use! Because it is detoxifying and good for the liver, many swear by pure celery juice in the morning on an empty stomach. The slow juicer extracts maximum juice from the fibers without generating heat. Tip: An apple can somewhat mellow the strong inherent taste.
- Blender: It's great for green smoothies, but beware: the tough fibers can wrap around the blade or make the smoothie "stringy." Cut the stalks into small pieces beforehand. It makes the drink extremely fresh and alkaline-forming.
- Air Fryer: A healthy snacking fun? Cut the stalks into sticks, toss them in a little oil and spices, and roast them in the air fryer. They lose some water but become al dente-soft, and the taste becomes milder.
- Bread Maker: Do you enjoy baking savory bread? Add finely diced celery and walnuts to the dough. This goes perfectly with cheese and wine.
- Ice Cube Maker: Since you often buy a lot for juice cleanses: Juice a large quantity and freeze the "detox booster" in an ice cube maker. This way, you can add a cube to your water or smoothie every morning without having to start the machine.
Buying & Storage
Good celery must squeak! If you rub the stalks lightly against each other, a squeaking sound should be produced. The leaves should be light green and fresh, not wilted or yellow.
It will keep well in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer for about a week. Tip: Place the stalks like flowers in a glass of water or wrap them in aluminum foil to keep them crisp.
Use in the kitchen
- Raw: The classic "ants on a log" snack (stalk with peanut butter and raisins) or as a dip stick for hummus.
- Base: Together with carrots and onions ("soffritto"), the flavorful base for almost every Italian sauce.
- Salad: Indispensable in "Waldorf salad" with apple and walnuts.
Fun Facts
- Negative calories? The rumor persists that you burn more calories chewing and digesting celery than it provides. While this isn't entirely physiologically true, at 16 kcal, it's very close to "nothing"!
- Aphrodisiac: Celery was considered an aphrodisiac by the ancient Romans and Greeks. It actually contains pheromones (androstenol) that are said to be attractive.
- Salt substitute: Due to its naturally high sodium content, it tastes salty and can help reduce the use of table salt.
Conclusion
Celery is the ultimate fitness partner. It is low in calories, lowers blood pressure, and is rich in potassium. Its detoxifying and liver-friendly properties make it a star in the slow juicer. Although it has a strong inherent taste and some allergenic potential, those who embrace it will be rewarded with a real health boost. Make the most of the season from August to March!
