Stewed Celery Recipe

Stewed celery is a classic dish that dates back centuries. Celery itself has a long and interesting history. It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and was widely cultivated by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It was highly regarded for its medicinal properties and was used to treat various ailments.

The recipe for stewed celery is simple yet flavorful, making it a versatile and satisfying dish. Here's how you can prepare this delightful recipe:

Ingredients:
- 3 heads of celery
- 1 oz. butter
- 1/2 gill of milk
- 1 oz. flour
- Pepper and salt to taste

Total Cost: 5d.
Time: Half an Hour

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the celery. Select three heads of celery and carefully separate the white and best parts. The outer green leaves can be saved for other recipes or discarded.
2. Thoroughly wash the celery stalks under running water, ensuring that any dirt or debris is removed.
3. Fill a pot with boiling water and season it with salt. Add the celery to the pot and let it simmer for approximately half an hour, or until the celery becomes tender. You can test its tenderness by inserting a fork into the stalks, which should go through easily.
4. While the celery is cooking, take half a pint of the water in which it was boiled and mix it with the milk. This will form the base of the sauce.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to form a roux. Cook the roux for a few minutes to remove any raw flour taste.
6. Slowly pour the celery broth and milk mixture into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking the sauce over low heat until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Once the celery is cooked, remove it from the pot and carefully arrange it on a serving dish. Pour the prepared sauce over the celery, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
8. Serve the stewed celery hot as a side dish or as a main course accompanied by rice or potatoes.

Fun fact: Stewed celery is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. It is known to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Additionally, it is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for individuals suffering from rheumatism or gout.

Variations:
- For a creamier sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce before pouring it over the celery.
- To add some extra flavor, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, on top of the dish before serving.
- Alternatively, you can stew the celery in broth or gravy instead of water for a richer taste. To thicken the sauce, simply add a small amount of butter and flour as directed in the original recipe.

In conclusion, stewed celery is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to complement other main courses. Its simplicity and health benefits make it a go-to recipe for both novice and experienced cooks alike. So, next time you're looking for a delicious and healthy vegetable dish, give stewed celery a try!