Leaf celery facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leaf celery |
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Apium
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| Apium graveolens var. secalinum Alef.
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Leaf celery is a special type of celery grown mostly in East Asian countries. You might also hear it called Chinese celery or Nan Ling celery. It's a variety of celery, which means it's a specific kind that's a bit different from the celery you usually see in grocery stores in Western countries.
People grow leaf celery for its tasty stalks and leaves, which are both eaten. Its stalks are thinner and often more curved than the thicker, straighter stalks of regular celery. A big difference is that with leaf celery, people use the leaves just as much as the stalks for cooking!
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What is Leaf Celery?
Leaf celery is a plant that belongs to the same family as carrots and parsley. Its scientific name is Apium graveolens var. secalinum. The "var." part means it's a variety of the common celery plant, Apium graveolens. Think of it like different kinds of apples, such as a Fuji apple or a Gala apple; they are all apples, but they have unique features.
How is it Different from Regular Celery?
When you compare leaf celery to the celery often found in Western supermarkets, you'll notice a few key differences:
- Stalks: Leaf celery has thinner stalks. They are often hollow and can be curved, not thick and straight like regular celery.
- Leaves: With leaf celery, the leaves are just as important as the stalks! They are full of flavor and are used a lot in cooking. For regular celery, people usually only eat the stalks.
- Flavor: Leaf celery often has a stronger, more intense celery flavor compared to the milder taste of regular celery.
Where Does Leaf Celery Grow?
Leaf celery is mostly grown and eaten in East Asian countries. It's a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes there. It thrives in places with a mild climate and moist soil. Farmers plant the seeds, and the plants grow fairly quickly, ready to be harvested for their delicious stalks and leaves.
How is Leaf Celery Used?
Because of its strong flavor, leaf celery is a favorite in many Asian kitchens. It's often used in dishes where you want a clear, strong celery taste.
Cooking with Leaf Celery
You can use leaf celery in many ways:
- Stir-fries: The thin stalks and leaves add a great crunch and flavor to stir-fried dishes with vegetables and meat.
- Soups: It's often added to broths and soups to give them a fresh, herby taste.
- Salads: Sometimes, the fresh leaves are chopped and added to salads for extra flavor.
- Garnishes: The leaves can also be used to decorate dishes, making them look more appealing.
It's a versatile vegetable that adds a unique touch to meals, making it a staple in many homes where it's grown.
