Celery Seed

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Whole seeds retain flavor for 3-4 years; ground celery seed loses potency after 2-3 years.

Toast seeds briefly in a dry pan to enhance their aroma before using

Grind just before use for maximum flavor, or buy whole and grind as needed

Add early in cooking to allow flavor to mellow and infuse

Crush lightly with a mortar and pestle to release oils if not grinding completely

Potato salad and coleslaw

Pickles and pickling brines

Tomato-based sauces and soups

Spice rubs for poultry and fish

Bloody Mary cocktails

Egg salad and deviled eggs

Using too much — celery seed is potent and can overpower dishes; start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust

Confusing celery seed with celery salt, which contains added salt and requires recipe adjustment

Adding at the end of cooking — the seeds need time to soften and release flavor