Whole Celery Seed

Pellicano's Whole Celery Seed

A Potent Concentrated Flavor

Pellicano's Whole Celery Seed offers a highly concentrated and distinct savory flavor profile. Unlike the mild, rehydrating flavor of celery flakes, the whole seed is significantly more potent, possessing a warm, earthy, slightly bitter, and almost musky taste. This intensity means a small amount goes a very long way, making it a powerful tool for seasoning large batches of food, especially those involving liquids or cold preservation.

The seeds are used whole to allow their potent oils to infuse slowly. In cold preparations like salad dressings and creamy salads, they add a slight crunch and a pervasive aroma that develops over time. In hot applications, like soups and stews, they are often added toward the end of cooking to preserve their distinct flavor, or tied in a sachet to prevent bitterness if simmered too long. For maximum flavor release, lightly crush the seeds before use.

Essential for Cold Salads and Brines

Celery seed has a powerful traditional role in several classic American and European dishes:

• Salad Staples: Absolutely essential for providing the signature savory base flavor in Coleslaw, Potato Salad, and Macaroni Salad, where the seeds’ slight crunch provides welcome texture.
• Pickling and Brining: A foundational spice in pickling mixes and brines, often used to cure corned beef or add a distinct, aromatic note to pickled vegetables like carrots or green beans.
• Savory Baking: Use sparingly in the dough for savory crackers, rolls, or breadsticks, where its flavor is released when baked.
• Soups and Sauces: A perfect seasoning for tomato-based soups, fish chowders, and homemade vegetable stock.

Fun Fact: A History of Tonic Drinks

Historically, celery seed was not only used for flavor but was a popular component in commercial tonics and medicinal drinks, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Extracts of the seed were included in formulas like "Celery-Vesce" (a sparkling effervescent beverage) and various "nerve tonics," believed to soothe the nerves and aid in digestion. Its potent flavor has long been linked to health and vitality, making it a revered component in kitchens globally.

Easy Recipe: Classic Creamy Coleslaw (Serves 6)

This recipe is the perfect showcase for the Celery Seed, allowing its potent, savory flavor to infuse the dressing and vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 6 Cups Shredded Cabbage (Green And Red)
• 1/4 Cup Mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1 Tbsp. Sugar
• 1 Tsp. Pellicano's Whole Celery Seed
• 1/2 Tsp. Salt
• 1/4 Tsp. Black Pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Mayonnaise, Apple Cider Vinegar, Sugar, Celery Seed, Salt, and Black Pepper until the dressing is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
2. Toss: Add the Shredded Cabbage to the bowl. Use a large spoon or tongs to gently toss the cabbage with the dressing until it is evenly coated.
3. Chill: Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours). This chilling time is essential as it allows the Celery Seed to release its oils and the cabbage to soften slightly, melding the flavors.
4. Serve alongside barbecue or fried chicken.

Ingredients: Celery Seeds.