Celery salt substitutes may come in very handy when you open your cupboard to find that this crucial spice is missing.
Celery Salt Substitutes
Celery salt substitutes might be quite common and easy to find, although the unique flavor of this spice can be difficult to mimic completely. Celery salt is a combination of dried ground celery seeds and fine ground salt. Celery salt may also be a classic ingredient in many comforting American foods and cocktails. It might be a beloved element in Bloody Mary cocktails, spice rubs for grilled meats and dredges for frying and is a must for a Chicago-Style hot dog. If you’re trying to reduce sodium in your diet or just don’t have this particular blend at home, there may be some excellent alternatives that you can use such as celery seed, dill, caraway or fennel seeds, and fresh celery stalks, leaves or roots. [1]
Celery salt could be a seasoned salt used as a food seasoning, made from ground seeds. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Celery Seed
You can simply buy whole celery seeds and grind them yourself for a stronger flavor and aroma. Use a 2:1 ratio of salt to celery to mimic commercial celery salt. Use a 1:1 ratio for lower sodium levels and a stronger celery flavor. If you want to cut out salt entirely, try a 2:1 ratio of celery seed to onion or garlic powder. [2]
Dill
Use fresh or dried dill, or even dill salt as an effective substitute for celery salt. The flavor might be different, and dill can be much more pungent aroma, so cut the amount in half to not overpower the dish.
Caraway or Fennel Seeds
These may have a distinctive anise flavor (similar to black licorice). These can be great in meat seasonings and salads and on potatoes and veggies. Use a little less so you don’t overwhelm the other flavors. [3]
Fresh Celery Stalks, Leaves or Root
If what you really want is that wonderful celery flavor, try using part of the fresh vegetable. Dice celery leaves and stalks into potato or egg salad, press celery juice and use it in cocktails, or cook celery root with potatoes. The fresh flavor might not need much, if any, added salt and the crunch adds great texture.
