Celery Spice

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

Celery is underappreciated as a vegetable and a seasoning. It makes a subtle but substantial rub for white fish such as tilapia, catfish, snapper, and more. The rub can also be sprinkled onto sea scallops.

Celery spice, also known as celery salt, is a flavorful seasoning that adds a distinctive taste to a variety of dishes. It is typically made from ground celery seeds mixed with salt. This combination creates a seasoning that not only imparts the aromatic and slightly peppery flavor of celery but also enhances the overall taste of the food.

Celery spice is widely used in cooking for its ability to add depth and complexity to various recipes. It’s a key ingredient in classic dishes like Bloody Mary cocktails, where its unique flavor profile contributes to the drink’s distinctive taste. The combination of celery and salt in this spice makes it a great option for flavoring soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. It’s particularly popular for seasoning seafood, poultry, and grilled meats.

In the recipe provided, the celery spice blend is combined with other herbs and spices to create a rub that enhances the flavor of fish and shellfish. The rub is easy to prepare and can be stored for several months, making it a convenient addition to your pantry for adding flavor to dishes at any time.

When using celery spice or celery salt, it’s important to consider the salt content, especially if you’re using it in conjunction with other salty ingredients. Adjust the amount of salt in your recipes accordingly to avoid over-salting. As with any spice, it’s a good idea to taste as you go to achieve the desired level of seasoning.

Overall, celery spice is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a unique twist to various dishes and enhancing the taste of your favorite recipes.

MAKES: ABOUT ¾ CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• ¼ cup kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 2 tablespoons celery salt
• 2 tablespoons celery seeds
• 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried lovage or summer savory
• 1 tablespoon crumbled dried thyme

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. STIR together all of the ingredients in a bowl to create the rub mixture.
2. SPRINKLE the rub lightly on fish or shellfish and then massage it in gently.
3. ALLOW the seasoned seafood to sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours wrapped or covered in the refrigerator, prior to cooking.
4. STORE the rub in a covered container in a cool, dark pantry for up to 3 months.

USES:

• Bloody Mary Cocktails: Celery spice is a classic ingredient in Bloody Mary cocktails. It adds a unique savory flavor that complements the tomato juice and vodka, creating a well-balanced and flavorful drink.
• Soups and Stews: Add celery spice to soups and stews to deepen the overall flavor profile. It works particularly well in vegetable soups, clam chowder, and other hearty dishes.
• Salad Dressings: Incorporate celery spice into homemade salad dressings for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs well with vinaigrettes and creamy dressings alike.
• Seafood and Poultry: Use celery spice as a rub for seafood and poultry before grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. It imparts a savory and slightly herbal taste that complements the natural flavors of the meat.
• Marinades: Include celery spice in marinades for meats and vegetables. It helps tenderize the meat while adding a unique flavor dimension.
• Potato Dishes: Sprinkle celery spice on roasted or mashed potatoes for a subtle kick of flavor. It can also be used in potato salads.
• Snack Seasoning: Elevate your popcorn, nuts, or trail mix by adding a sprinkle of celery spice. It can provide a savory twist to your favorite snacks.
• Sauces and Gravies: Add a pinch of celery spice to sauces and gravies to enhance their depth and complexity. It works well in tomato-based sauces, barbecue sauces, and more.
• Egg Dishes: Enhance omelets, scrambled eggs, and quiches by incorporating celery spice into the egg mixture.
• Baked Goods: Get creative by experimenting with celery spice in baked goods like bread, biscuits, and crackers. It can add an unexpected twist to familiar recipes.
• Pickling: Use celery spice in pickling brines to infuse a unique flavor into pickled vegetables like cucumbers, onions, and carrots.