Celery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅฌ
celery
[หsษlษri ]
Definition
food ingredient
Celery is a marshland plant in the family Apiaceae. It has a long fibrous stalk that is commonly eaten as a vegetable. Celery is often used in salads, soups, and stock because of its crisp texture and mild, slightly peppery flavor. Additionally, it is known for its high water content and is frequently consumed raw as a crunchy snack. Beyond its culinary uses, celery is also recognized for its potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I added chopped celery to the vegetable soup.
- Celery sticks with peanut butter make a great snack.
- You should include celery in your recipes for extra crunch.
- She garnished the dish with fresh celery leaves.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Nutrition
- A great source of vitamins K and C, celery is also very low in calories, making it a popular choice for healthy diets.
- It contains a lot of waterโup to 95%โwhich helps keep the body hydrated.
Culinary Uses
- Celery is often used in cooking as a base for soups and stews, adding flavor to many dishes.
- Itโs popular in salads, as a snack, or in savory dishes, and pairs well with dips like hummus.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, celery is associated with celebration and good luck, often used in traditional recipes.
- The vegetable is a key ingredient in the famous 'mirepoix,' a flavor base for many French dishes.
Botanical Facts
- Celery belongs to the Apium genus, which includes other vegetables like parsley and carrots.
- It is a biennial plant, meaning it has a two-year life cycle, though it is usually harvested in its first year.
Origin of 'celery'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'cรฉleri,' which in turn came from the Latin 'selinum,' referring to a type of wild celery.
- Historically, celery was used in ancient Greece and Rome not just as food but also for its supposed medicinal properties.
The word 'celery' comes from the Latin word 'selinum' and the Greek word 'selinon,' which referred to a type of celery. Its origins trace back to ancient Mediterranean regions, where it was cultivated for its aromatic leaves and edible stalks. Celery was valued not only for its flavor but also for its medicinal properties. In the Middle Ages, it began to be used more extensively in cooking, especially in European cuisines. The modern cultivation of celery started in the 18th century, when it was developed into a larger, crunchier variety that we are familiar with today. The cultivation techniques improved over time, leading to the selection of varieties with better taste and texture. Today, celery is a staple in many kitchens worldwide and is known for its versatility in both raw and cooked dishes.