As a food science expert with a focus on preservation techniques, I can confidently say that celery can indeed be frozen, but there are certain considerations to keep in mind to ensure the best results when it comes to taste and texture.

Firstly, it's important to understand the nature of celery as a vegetable. Celery is crisp and high in water content, which makes it a versatile addition to a variety of dishes. However, these same qualities can make freezing a bit tricky. When water in the celery cells freezes, it expands, which can lead to a change in texture. This is why thawed celery often ends up being less crisp than fresh.

To prepare celery for freezing, it's best to wash it thoroughly and slice it into the desired size. Some people prefer to freeze celery in chunks, while others might opt for smaller pieces. The choice largely depends on how you plan to use the frozen celery. It's also crucial to blanch the celery before freezing. Blanching involves briefly boiling the celery and then immediately cooling it in ice water. This process helps to preserve the color and some of the nutrients.

Once blanched, the celery should be drained well and placed in an airtight container or a freezer bag. It's often helpful to lay the celery out in a single layer first and then freeze it before stacking the pieces on top of each other. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easier to take out just the right amount when you need it.

When it comes to using frozen celery, it's true that its texture will be altered. It won't be as crisp as when it was fresh, which means it's not ideal for raw consumption or for use in dishes where a crisp texture is desired, such as in a relish tray or for making ants on a log. However, the flavor of celery remains largely intact after freezing, making it a great option for cooked dishes.

Frozen celery works exceptionally well in soups, stews, casseroles, and other hot dishes where the softened texture is not an issue. It can also be used in smoothies or juices, where the texture won't be as noticeable. Additionally, it can be a convenient way to have celery on hand for recipes that call for it as an ingredient, without worrying about it spoiling before you get a chance to use it.

In terms of storage, frozen celery can last up to 12 months in the freezer. However, for the best quality, it's recommended to use it within 6 to 8 months. Over time, the texture may continue to degrade, even if the celery is still safe to eat.

In conclusion, while freezing does change the texture of celery, it's a viable method for preserving this nutritious and flavorful vegetable. By following the right steps, you can enjoy the taste of celery in a variety of cooked dishes long after the fresh celery is out of season.

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Yes, you can freeze celery, but it will lose its crispness. For this reason, frozen celery is best used in soups, stews, and other hot dishes. You won't be able to use defrosted celery for a relish tray or making ants on a log. Eating it raw just won't work.Sep 9, 2017read more >>