Ghost Celery
Estimated Inventory, 16 oz : 0
Description/Taste
White celery has elongated, straight, and slender stems, averaging 10 to 12 centimeters in length, and grows upright in a loose, rosette shape. The stems are smooth, firm, thin, and hollow with a unique, bright white coloring. Attached to the stems, the green leaves are delicate, pliable, multi-lobed with serrated edges, and have light veining spanning across the surface. White celery is crisp and aromatic with a sweet, subtly peppery, and herbal flavor.
Seasons/Availability
White celery is available year-round, with a peak season in the winter.
Current Facts
The White celery pictured above is botanically a part of the Apiaceae family. This variety called Ghost was developed by Girl & Dug Farm in north San Diego County, California. Utilizing innovative growing techniques in climate-controlled greenhouses, Girl & Dug Farm cultivates Ghost celery that can be harvested when young, used as an edible garnish, or it can be left to fully mature, used similarly to an herb in culinary applications.
Nutritional Value
Ghost celery contains vitamins A and C, which are antioxidants that can help boost the immune system. The celery also contains some fiber, which can help aid in digestion.
Applications
Ghost celery is best suited for both raw and cooked applications such as stir-frying, simmering, and sautéing. When used raw, the celery is commonly consumed in its young state as an edible garnish, or it can be blended into sauces and dips. Mature Ghost celery can be sliced and lightly stir-fried with other vegetables for a crunchy, nutritious dish, chopped and added to soups, or sautéed with herbs for a crisp accompaniment. The leaves are also edible and can be added to sauces, salads, and main courses. Ghost celery pairs well with avocado, apples, lemongrass, ginger, garlic, scallions, tomatoes, potatoes, mushrooms, walnuts, sharp cheeses, thyme, and bay leaves. The fresh celery will keep 8-10 days when stored in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Girl & Dug Farm utilizes a little over six acres of land to produce specialty herbs and vegetables in north San Diego County. Implementing hydroponic gardening, vertical growing techniques, and climate-controlled greenhouses mixed with a water-conscious mindset, owner Aaron Choi ethically cultivates uncommon produce to bring awareness to unique, edible ingredients. Sourcing produce directly to high-end restaurants and working through select distribution partners, Choi is inspired by the way unusual ingredients can spark conversations around food and hopes to bring unusual herbs and vegetables into everyday cooking.
Geography/History
Ghost celery pictured above was developed at Girl & Dug Farm in San Diego County, California. and is believed to be a variety of white celery. Today Ghost celery is available through select partners of Girl & Dug Farm, such as Specialty Produce, and is found throughout Southern California.