Knowing how to properly store your celery whether whole or cut is essential if you want it to stay fresh for as long as possible and not be disappointed when you’re ready to use it.
With expert tips from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Center for Home Food Preservation of the University of Georgia, Athens, we’ll show you how to do it.
To store your celery, wrap it tightly in an aluminum foil to retain the moisture and put it in the veggie crisper drawer. At 40°F or slightly below, celery will last up to two weeks in the fridge.
As for storing cut celery, put the cut stalks in a container, fill it with plenty of water, and then close it tightly with the cover or a plastic bag.
Freezing celery can keep them for up to 12 months, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
**Freezing is by far the best way to store celery and other fruits and vegetables for up to a year.
How to Store Celery and Keep it Fresh for Long
Follow the four easy steps below to store your celery.
Step 1: Don’t Rinse or Wash
While it may feel like the right thing to do, don’t rinse the celery stalks until you’re ready to use it. Instead, use your hand to remove any dirt or debris that may be attached to the stalk.
When buying, buy it fresh. Look for celery stalks that are firm and crisp with the green color still vibrant. Avoid the ones that have brown spots or have started to wilt.
Step 2: Wrap in aluminum foil
Take a sheet of aluminum foil, wrap it around the stalks of your celery, and tightly seal the foil; tight enough to keep out moisture from the surrounding and gentle enough to not crush the stalks.
This will help to keep the celery fresh by preventing moisture from getting in.
Step 3: Store the celery in the fridge
Place the wrapped celery in the crisper drawer of your fridge. The crisper drawer is designed to keep fruits and vegetables fresh for longer, so it’s the best place to store your celery.
Remember to check the celery every few days to make sure it is still fresh and make sure to use it within two weeks. Keeping your celery in an aluminum foil in the fridge can only keep it fresh for up to two weeks.
If you want to keep it for longer, it’s better to freeze it.
How to Freeze Celery
Follow the instructions by the National Center for Home Food Preservation of the University of Georgia, Athens below.
Step 1: Select crisp, tender stalks, free from coarse strings.
Step 2: Wash thoroughly, trim, and cut the stalks into one inch lengths.
Step 3: Water blanch for 3 minutes. Cool promptly, drain, and package leaving no headspace. Seal and freeze.
Note that frozen celery is suitable only for cooked dishes as it loses its crispness when frozen.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your celery stays crisp and delicious for up to two weeks.
Remember to buy only fresh celery, don’t rinse the stalks, wrap them in aluminum foil, and store them in the fridge.
With these tips, you can enjoy fresh celery in all your favorite recipes.