How To Use Chinese Celery

You can use Chinese celery in stir-fries, soups, salads, and dumpling fillings to add a fresh, aromatic crunch.
 
Chinese celery, also known as leaf celery or cutting celery, looks like a thinner, leafier version of the Western celery you find in most grocery stores.
 
Its stalks are slender, its leaves are abundant, and its flavor is more intense and slightly peppery.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to use Chinese celery in your cooking, you’re in the right place.
 
In this post, we’ll explore how to use Chinese celery, from prep to plate, so you can make the most of this underrated ingredient.
 
Let’s get to it.
 

How to Use Chinese Celery in Your Cooking

Using Chinese celery is easier than you might think.
 
The key is to treat it more like an herb than a bulky vegetable.
 
Here’s how to use Chinese celery in different ways:
 

1. Chop It for Stir-Fries

One of the best ways to use Chinese celery is in a hot wok.
 
Cut the stalks into two-inch segments and toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
 
The heat softens the stalks slightly while keeping that signature crunch.
 
You can use Chinese celery in beef stir-fries, chicken dishes, or even a simple tofu scramble.
 
The leaves?
 
Toss them in too.
 
They wilt fast and add a burst of fresh flavor.
 

2. Add It to Soups and Broths

If you want to use Chinese celery in soups, you’re in for a treat.
 
It works beautifully in clear broths, noodle soups, and even creamy soups.
 
Chop the stalks and leaves finely and add them near the end of cooking.
 
This keeps their flavor bright and prevents them from turning mushy.
 
You can also use Chinese celery as a substitute for regular celery in recipes like chicken noodle soup.
 
Just remember, a little goes a long way because the flavor is stronger.
 

3. Use It Raw in Salads

Yes, you can use Chinese celery raw.
 
Its thin stalks and tender leaves are perfect for salads.
 
Slice the stalks thinly and toss them with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
 
The leaves can be used like parsley or cilantro, adding a fresh, peppery note.
 
You can use Chinese celery in grain bowls, too.
 
It adds a pleasant crunch that contrasts nicely with soft grains like quinoa or farro.
 

4. Fold It Into Dumpling Fillings

If you’ve ever had Chinese dumplings, you’ve probably tasted Chinese celery without knowing it.
 
It’s a classic ingredient in pork and chive dumplings, adding a subtle bitterness that balances the richness of the meat.
 
To use Chinese celery in dumplings, chop it very finely and mix it with ground pork, ginger, and soy sauce.
 
The moisture in the celery helps keep the filling juicy.
 
And the flavor?
 
Absolutely delicious.
 

How to Prep Chinese Celery Before You Use It

Before you use Chinese celery, a little prep goes a long way.
 
Here’s what to do:
 

1. Wash It Thoroughly

Chinese celery tends to hold onto dirt and grit, especially near the base.
 
Rinse it under cold water and separate the stalks to get into all the crevices.
 
You can also soak it in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes to loosen any debris.
 

2. Trim the Ends

Cut off the very bottom of the bunch where the stalks meet.
 
Then trim any brown or wilted leaves.
 
You can use Chinese celery leaves that are fresh and green, but toss the ones that look sad.
 

3. Decide Whether to Chop or Leave Whole

For stir-fries, chop into segments.
 
For soups, chop finely.
 
For salads, slice thinly.
 
And for garnishes, just pluck the leaves.
 
There’s no wrong way to use Chinese celery, so experiment and see what you like.
 

What Does Chinese Celery Taste Like?

Knowing the flavor helps you use Chinese celery more confidently.
 
It tastes like a cross between regular celery, parsley, and a hint of black pepper.
 
The stalks are crisp and slightly bitter, while the leaves are more herbaceous.
 
This makes it a fantastic way to add depth to dishes without overpowering them.
 
You can use Chinese celery anywhere you’d use celery or parsley, but be mindful of its stronger taste.
 
A little really does go a long way.
 

1. It’s More Intense Than Western Celery

Western celery is mild and watery.
 
Chinese celery is bold and peppery.
 
That’s why you can use Chinese celery in smaller amounts and still get a big flavor boost.
 

2. The Leaves Are Edible and Delicious

Don’t toss the leaves.
 
They’re one of the best parts.
 
You can use Chinese celery leaves as a garnish for soups, noodles, and even scrambled eggs.
 
They add a fresh, grassy note that brightens up any dish.
 

3. It Holds Up Well to Heat

Unlike some delicate herbs, Chinese celery can take the heat.
 
It softens without turning to mush, which is why it’s perfect for stir-fries and braises.
 
You can use Chinese celery in dishes that cook for a while, and it’ll still hold its shape and flavor.
 

So, How to Use Chinese Celery?

You can use Chinese celery in stir-fries, soups, salads, and dumplings.
 
The key is to treat it like both a vegetable and an herb.
 
Chop the stalks, use the leaves, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
 
Now that you know how to use Chinese celery, grab a bunch and get cooking.
 
Happy cooking.