Celery Seed

What Are Celery Seeds?

Celery seed (Apium graveolens) is a spice obtained from the tiny, brown-greenish seeds formed from the flowers of the celery plant. It comes from the same plant as the celery root or stalk we eat as a vegetable, but the seed carries a much more intense and sharp aroma.

It has a slightly bitter, sharp, herbaceous taste; it is generally used as a preservative-aromatic component in pickles and brines.

Nutritional Value of Celery Seeds

Celery seed contains approximately 392 kcal of energy, 18 g protein per 100 g, and notable levels of calcium (1767 mg), iron (45 mg), and magnesium (440 mg). Since the amount used in a recipe (a pinch or a few seeds) is very small, it makes no practically measurable contribution to daily nutrition.

What Are the Benefits of Celery Seeds?

Celery seed has traditionally been used to ease digestion and as a diuretic; research on its plant compounds is ongoing, but these findings have not yet turned into a definitive health recommendation.

This information is general; celery seed is a spice and is not a substitute for medical treatment. Those allergic to celery are advised to avoid the seed as well.

How Are Celery Seeds Selected?

Quality celery seed should be dry, dark brown-greenish in color, and have a distinct scent; dusty or scentless seeds should be avoided.

• The seed color should be dark and homogeneous; paleness is a sign of staleness.
• Releasing a sharp, herbaceous aroma when rubbed is a sign of freshness.
• Free-flowing seeds that have not become damp and clumped should be preferred.

How Are Celery Seeds Stored?

Celery seed can be kept for 2–3 years in a closed jar in a cool, dark place; it is important to keep the lid tightly closed, as moisture quickly reduces its aroma.

Using Celery Seeds in the Kitchen

Celery seed is used in pickles and brines, some soups and meat stocks, and in making celery salt.

How Are Celery Seeds Used in Pickles?

A pinch of celery seed is added to the pickle jar along with the vinegar brine; it adds aroma and is traditionally thought to also provide a preservative effect.

Which Recipes Use Celery Seeds?

Celery seed is used in mixed pickles, cucumber pickles, meat stock soups, and some salad dressings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are celery seeds good for?

Celery seed has traditionally been consumed for digestive comfort; it is a spice and carries no claim to cure any disease.

Are celery seed and celery salt the same thing?

No; celery salt is a separate product made by mixing ground celery seed with table salt. This difference should be kept in mind when using salt in a recipe.

Why is celery seed used in pickles?

Celery seed adds a sharp, herbaceous aroma to pickles; in traditional recipes it serves as a component that balances the taste of the vinegar brine.

Can celery seed cause an allergic reaction?

Yes; in people allergic to the celery family, celery seed can also cause an allergic reaction, and those individuals are advised to avoid consuming it.

Do celery seed and celery root come from the same plant?

Yes; the celery root/stalk we eat as a vegetable and celery seed used as a spice come from the same plant (Apium graveolens), only the part used differs.