Substitutes for celery salt in cooking include mixing celery seeds with salt, using Old Bay Seasoning, celery juice and salt, dill seed, or herb seasoning blends. Each alternative maintains the unique savory and earthy flavor of celery salt in various dishes.
Old Bay has a complex flavor profile that includes celery salt. It can be used to rim glasses or added directly to cocktails for a similar savory note. Use it sparingly as it is more potent and complex than plain celery salt. McCormick is the brand behind Old Bay.
A blend of ground celery seed and salt can substitute celery salt for cocktail garnishes. Mix to a 2:1 ratio of salt to celery seed, and adjust to your preference. The freshness of the celery seed will influence the flavor intensity. McCormick is a recommended brand.
For dressings, the combination of celery seed and salt can closely mimic celery salt. Use a ratio of 2 parts salt to 1 part ground celery seed to achieve the desired flavor. Adjust according to taste, and remember that the seeds can be quite potent. Popular brands include McCormick.
Fresh celery juice combined with salt can also provide a similar flavor profile. This is best used in liquid-based dressings where the juice's moisture won't affect the consistency. Use salt to taste and add celery juice cautiously. No specific brands are needed for fresh celery juice.
Celery seeds alone can impart the flavor missing from the lack of celery salt. Add the seeds directly to your soups or stews. Start with a pinch and adjust to taste, as the flavor can be potent. McCormick and Frontier Co-op are trusted brands for celery seeds.
Dill seed can provide an aromatic, slightly bitter flavor that resembles celery. Use it sparingly as a substitute in soups and stews. The ratio should be started small and adjusted according to taste. Brands like Simply Organic offer dill seed.
For a gluten-free alternative, use a combination of ground celery seed and sea salt. This will ensure no cross-contamination from processing facilities that handle gluten. Start with a 2:1 ratio of salt to celery seed and adjust to taste. Look for certified gluten-free brands like McCormick.
Herb seasoning blends that include celery seed can also be a gluten-free option. Choose a blend that complements the flavors of your dish. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed. Make sure the blend is certified gluten-free. Brands like Simply Organic offer gluten-free options.
Mix plain salt with ground celery seed to create a homemade celery salt substitute. This allows you to control the celery flavor intensity. Use a ratio of 2:1 salt to celery seed. Keep in mind the freshness of the celery seeds as it affects the potency. McCormick and Spicely are popular brands for celery seeds.
If ground celery seed is unavailable, dried celery flakes can be a good alternative. Mix with salt in a 2:1 ratio of salt to flakes. This blend will provide a milder celery flavor. Litehouse is a brand offering dried celery flakes.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Cocktails | Old Bay Seasoning, Celery Seed and Salt |
| Salad Dressings | Celery Seed and Salt, Celery Juice and Salt |
| Soups and Stews | Celery Seeds, Dill Seed |
| Gluten-Free Recipes | Celery Seed and Sea Salt, Herb Seasoning Blends |
| Seasonings and Rubs | Plain Salt and Celery Seed, Plain Salt and Celery Flakes |
Celery salt adds a distinctive flavor to a variety of dishes, but these substitutes can help you achieve a similar taste when it's unavailable. Each substitute offers a different way to capture the essence of celery salt, allowing you to tailor your cooking to the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you're mixing your own blend or using an alternative seasoning, you'll be able to keep the savory, earthy flavor profile in your dishes.
