Braised Celery Wedges
Tender braised celery wedges infused with savory bouillon and oregano, topped with pimento, perfect as a side dish for lemon-flavored chicken or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim stem ends of celery; cut stalk crosswise about 6 inches from the base, reserving leaves for other uses.
- Cut the celery lengthwise into 4 to 6 wedges and arrange in a large skillet.
- Dissolve the chicken bouillon cube in boiling water and add to the skillet along with oregano leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8 minutes or until the celery is crisp-tender.
- Remove the celery to a heated platter.
- Scatter sliced pimento over the celery and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you don't have chicken bouillon, vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute. Experiment with herbs like thyme or basil for a different twist. This dish pairs wonderfully with proteins like Chicken Eugene or a light fish like Pan Seared Salmon(With Mushroom Reduction).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised celery wedges as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted chicken for a delightful contrast in textures. It also makes a unique addition to a vegetable platter or can be served with a light dip. For a heartier meal, pair it with chicken recipes like Vaughans Baked Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover braised celery can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the celery mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised Celery Wedges contains roughly 64 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen celery for this recipe?
While fresh celery is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen celery as a substitute. However, the freezing process may alter the crispness, making it softer. To use frozen celery, simply thaw it before braising, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon?
If you prefer not to use chicken bouillon, vegetable broth is an excellent alternative that will still provide depth to the dish. Alternatively, you can create a homemade broth using water and a combination of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of soy sauce.
How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding ingredients like garlic or shallots when simmering the celery. You can also finish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for an extra layer of taste. Adding nuts like toasted pine nuts can provide a delightful crunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).