Celery is a versatile and healthy vegetable that is often used in juicing. Its crisp texture and unique flavor make it a popular choice for juicing enthusiasts. However, storing celery properly is crucial to maintain its freshness and nutritional value. In this article, we will discuss some essential tips and tricks on how to properly store celery for juicing, ensuring that you get the most out of this fantastic vegetable.
Choosing the Right Celery
When it comes to storing celery for juicing, starting with the right celery stalks is vital. Look for celery that is firm, fresh, and vibrant in color. Avoid any stalks that are wilted, have yellow or brown patches, or feel soft to the touch. It’s best to choose celery with leaves still attached since they indicate freshness.
Trimming and Prepping
Once you have selected your celery, it’s time to trim and prep it for storage. Start by removing the outermost stalks, as they tend to be the least fresh. Then, separate the stalks and cut off the base, allowing the celery to fit neatly into your storage container. Remember to save the leaves as they can be used for garnishing or added flavor in various recipes.
Storing Celery in the Refrigerator
Refrigeration is the most common method of storing celery. Follow these steps to ensure your celery stays fresh for longer:
1. Wrapping in Aluminum Foil
One effective way to store celery in the refrigerator is by wrapping it in aluminum foil. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the celery from turning limp. Simply wrap the celery tightly in aluminum foil, making sure to cover the entire stalk. Place the wrapped celery in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
2. Utilizing a Plastic Bag
Another option is to store celery in a plastic bag. Before placing the celery inside the bag, consider adding a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Bundle the stalks together and seal the plastic bag tightly. Then, store it in the vegetable compartment of your refrigerator.
3. Using a Container or Jar
If you prefer using containers or jars, make sure they are airtight to keep your celery fresh. Before placing the stalks inside, wrap them in a damp paper towel to maintain their crispness. Seal the container well and keep it in the refrigerator.
Storing Celery in Water
If you want to keep your celery fresh and crisp for an extended period, storing it in water is a great option. Follow these steps to store celery in water effectively:
1. Preparing the Celery
Start by trimming the ends of the celery stalks to remove any damaged or dry parts. Rinse the stalks thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Then, cut the celery into manageable lengths based on the height of your storage container.
2. Selecting the Container
Choose a container that is tall enough to accommodate the celery stalks without bending or overcrowding them. A glass jar or water glass often works well for this purpose. Make sure the container is clean and has enough room to hold sufficient water.
3. Adding Water
Fill the chosen container with enough water to submerge the celery stalks. You may also add ice cubes to keep the water cool and help maintain the freshness. Place the celery stalks upright in the container, ensuring that the cut ends are submerged in water.
4. Covering the Celery
To prevent any external contaminants from affecting the celery, cover the container loosely with a plastic bag or plastic wrap. This cover also helps maintain humidity levels, ensuring the celery stays crisp.
Storing Celery in the Freezer
If you have an abundance of celery or want to have it readily available for juicing, freezing celery is an excellent option. Follow these steps to store celery in the freezer effectively:
1. Blanching the Celery
Blanching celery involves briefly immersing it in boiling water, followed by an ice bath. This process helps retain its color, flavor, and nutritional value. Start by cutting the celery into bite-sized pieces or as desired. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the celery for 2-3 minutes. Then, transfer it to an ice bath to cool.
2. Drying the Celery
After blanching, ensure the celery is thoroughly dried to prevent ice crystals from forming. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to gently pat dry the celery pieces.
3. Packaging for Freezing
Package the blanched and dried celery in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Squeeze out any excess air from the bags to prevent freezer burn. Remember to label the containers with the date for easy reference.
4. Freezing the Celery
Place the packaged celery in the freezer, ensuring it lies flat to maximize space. Lay the celery in a single layer if possible. Once frozen, you can stack or organize the bags to save space in your freezer.
Conclusion
Proper storage of celery is essential to preserve its freshness and nutritional benefits, especially when using it for juicing. Whether you choose to store it in the refrigerator, in water, or the freezer, these tips and tricks will ensure your celery stays crisp and ready to be juiced whenever you desire. So, the next time you buy a bunch of celery, follow these methods to store it properly and enjoy the long-lasting benefits of this delicious vegetable in your juicing journey.