Celery Salt

Celery salt is a seasoned salt made from ground celery seeds mixed with salt, and it's a versatile seasoning used to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. It does not have a specific seasonality as it is a dried spice, but it is commonly used in American, particularly in Chicago-style hot dogs, as well as in Bloody Mary cocktails, and in Canadian cuisine. It imparts a savory, slightly bitter taste that can add depth to soups, stews, and salads.

Celery Salt Synonyms

Celery Salt Substitutes

Salt

Different Forms/Types of Celery Salt

Ground

Celery salt is most commonly found as a finely ground powder, which is a blend of salt and celery seed. This form is ideal for seasoning and rubs.

Whole Seed

Whole celery seeds can be ground with salt to create fresh celery salt, offering a more potent flavor than pre-ground varieties.

How to Choose Celery Salt

When choosing celery salt, look for a well-balanced ratio of salt to celery seed. The color should be a light beige, indicating freshness. Avoid products with additives or anti-caking agents, as these can affect the purity and taste. Organic options may offer a cleaner flavor profile.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Celery Salt

Celery salt, a blend of ground celery seeds and salt, is a versatile seasoning that can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to use celery salt judiciously due to its high sodium content and potent flavor. It can easily overpower other flavors if used in excess. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Celery salt is often used to enhance the flavors in savory dishes, and it can be added during the cooking process or sprinkled on as a finishing touch. It's also a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Bloody Mary.

Shelf Life of Celery Salt

Store celery salt in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent clumping and to maintain its potency. Whole celery seeds should also be stored in airtight containers and can be ground as needed to ensure freshness. Properly stored, celery salt can last for several years, but for best flavor, use within one year of purchase.

Recommended Brands for Celery Salt

whole celery seed: Simply Organic

ground celery salt: Morton & Bassett

Cooking Techniques for Celery Salt

Brining: Use celery salt in brine solutions to infuse meats with moisture and flavor. It works well for brining chicken or turkey, enhancing the juiciness and taste of the meat.

Dry Rubs: Celery salt can be included in dry rubs for meats, providing a savory, slightly bitter note that complements the natural flavors of the protein. It's particularly good with pork and poultry.

Salad Dressings: Incorporate celery salt into vinaigrettes or creamy dressings to add depth and a hint of earthiness. It pairs well with the fresh flavors of a green salad.

Popular Celery Salt Recipes

Bloody Mary
Old Bay Seasoned Crab Cakes
Chicago-Style Hot Dogs

Celery Salt Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 0 g
calories: 0 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Celery salt pairs well with fresh vegetables, especially in tomato-based dishes or with cucumbers in salads. It complements the flavors of eggs in dishes like deviled eggs or egg salad. Celery salt also works well with starchy foods like potato salad and is a key ingredient in coleslaw. It can enhance the taste of seafood, particularly in crab or shrimp recipes, and is often used in conjunction with other spices like paprika and cayenne pepper.

Allergen Information

Celery is one of the less common food allergens, but it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Those with a known allergy to celery should avoid celery salt and products containing it.

Ingredient Comparisons

Salt vs Celery Salt