What Is Celery Seed Used for?

Celery seed is the tiny, tan-colored fruit of the plant, Apium graviolens, which is a member of the parsley family. It is grown in France, China and India and widely available in grocery stores, found in the herb and spice section.

Medicinal Uses

Celery seed has been used in folk and Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as colds, arthritis, liver disease and water retention.

Spice Blends

Celery seed is an important ingredient in spice blends and in celery salt. It is found in bouquets garni, pickling and curry spice mixtures as well.

Soups

Celery seed imparts a slight celery flavor to soups and is often used in creamy soups such as clam or potato soup.

Ethnic Cuisine

Celery seed is often used in Italian, German, Asian and Russian recipes where it is added to pickled vegetables, breads, sauces and soups.

Vegetables

Celery seed is particularly good with tomatoes and tomato-based sauces. Add it to potato salad, salad dressings and cooked vegetables.

References

• Culinarycafe.com
• University of Maryland

Resources

• Celery seed information and recipes