Grocery
Fresh Celery Hearts
What it is
Celery hearts are the tender, pale green inner stalks of a celery bunch. They are less fibrous and have a milder flavor compared to the outer stalks. This part of the celery plant is often preferred for its delicate texture and subtle taste. They are a versatile vegetable, offering a crisp bite and a refreshing essence to various dishes. You can enjoy them raw or cooked, making them a staple in many kitchens.
How people cook with it
Celery hearts are excellent for snacking or adding to cooked dishes. Their mild flavor makes them a good choice when you want a subtle vegetal note.
- Snacking on raw stalks
- Adding to salads
- Incorporating into soups
- Using in stir-fries
To prepare celery hearts, simply wash them under cool water and pat them dry. For raw consumption, you can cut them into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole. They are a popular addition to crudités platters, often served with dips. When cooking, they can be chopped and added to the base of soups, stews, and sauces, where they soften and meld with other flavors. They also work well in stir-fries, providing a pleasant crunch if not overcooked.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to the outer stalks of celery, the hearts are more tender and less stringy. Their flavor is also less pronounced, making them ideal for recipes where a strong celery taste might be undesirable. The inner stalks are typically lighter in color due to less sun exposure.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use celery hearts for their tender texture and mild flavor.
How to keep the rest
To keep leftover celery hearts fresh, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in a sealed container with a damp paper towel. Store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This method helps to retain their moisture and crispness for several days.