Celery is a versatile vegetable which can not only add aroma and flavor to your cooking, but is also rich in nutrients. It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds apart from essential vitamins and minerals. But can it be used in everyday North Indian cooking? Well, the answer is Yes.
How To Use Celery In North Indian Cooking
1. As a Substitute for Onions
Celery can be used instead of onions to make a base for a masala or gravy. It can even be added in some quantity along with onions to give extra flavor to the preparation. Celery stalks are to be finely chopped, just like onions, and sautéed on low to medium heat before adding other herbs and spices.
2. As a Main Ingredient In Vegetable Dishes
Chopped celery stalks can be added to a mixed vegetable curry as one of the main ingredients, particularly along with potatoes, carrots, green peas, and cauliflower. Celery cooks fast, and hence should be added towards the end of the cooking process.
3. In Dal Curry
Chopped and sautéed celery stalks can be used in a dal fry recipe along with other herbs and spices.
4. In Other Curries
Potatoes with celery, masala celery, stir-fried celery are other ways in which celery can be used in North Indian Cooking.
5. In A Salad
Thoroughly washed and chopped celery can be eaten raw as a salad.
6. As a Garnish
Celery leaves can be used to garnish a curry, just the way coriander leaves are used.
It may take some amount of experimenting and getting used to the flavor, before celery can become a part of your everyday North Indian cooking. It will be best to start with a small quantity and determine how much is needed in specific dishes.
Happy cooking.