Celery (Apium Graveolens) is a nutritional powerhouse, packing an array of phytochemicals like phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, B, folic acid, K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, and fiber.
Health Benefits of Celery:
Cancer prevention: While there’s no conclusive scientific evidence suggesting that celery juice can directly prevent or cure cancer, it’s considered part of a healthy diet and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. Antioxidants in celery like Lutein, Zea-xanthin, and Beta-carotene have shown potential in inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells. Polyacetylenes and Phthalides may also possess anti-tumor properties.
Lowering cholesterol: Celery juice may aid in reducing bad cholesterol levels in the blood, thanks to the chemical compound 3-n-butylphthalide. Additionally, celery promotes bile secretion and improves fatty liver conditions.
Blood pressure control: Consuming celery juice may help regulate blood pressure. Celery contains a flavonoid called luteolin, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects, supporting stable blood pressure levels.
Spicy Celery Salad
1. Spicy Celery Salad Ingredients
– Celery stalks
– Garlic
– Seasonings: Salt, sesame oil, soy sauce, chili oil (or chili paste)
2. Method for Preparing Spicy Celery Salad
Step 1: Ingredient Preparation
– After discarding any damaged or wilted leaves, thoroughly clean the celery stalks and pat them dry.
– Peel and wash the garlic, then mince it finely.
Step 2: Blanching the Celery
– Place a pot on the stove, adding water and a dash of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
– Once boiling, add the rinsed celery stalks and blanch them briefly.
– Use chopsticks to stir gently until the celery turns a vibrant green.
Step 3: Combining the Celery with the Spicy Sauce
– Transfer the blanched celery to a large bowl.
– Proceed to add the minced garlic, chili oil, soy sauce, and sesame oil in sequence. Mix thoroughly with chopsticks, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.
– Arrange the spicy celery salad on a plate and enjoy.
The finished product boasts an eye-catching appearance with vibrant colors. Upon tasting, you’ll experience the refreshing flavor of celery combined with the spicy heat of garlic and the savory richness of sesame oil. The spicy celery salad serves well as an appetizer or as an accompaniment to rice or noodles.
Cautions for Consuming Celery:
Utilize both leaves and stalks: Both the leaves and stalks of celery provide nutritional value. Avoid discarding the stalks when preparing celery dishes.
Wash thoroughly: Before use, wash celery thoroughly to eliminate any dirt or bacteria.
Slice thinly: When slicing celery, do so thinly to preserve its flavor and nutritional integrity.
Methods for Making the Most Delicious Celery Juice:
Celery juice: Use a juicer or a blender to extract the juice from celery. Optionally, add a touch of lemon or honey for natural sweetness.
Celery salad: Thinly slice celery and combine it with sunflower seeds, pomegranate seeds, and seasonings such as olive oil, lemon, salt, and pepper.