Hello, I'm an expert in botany and culinary arts. When it comes to the edible parts of celery, there's a bit of a common misconception that needs to be clarified. Celery is a versatile vegetable that offers more than just the crunchy stalks that many people are familiar with.

Firstly, let's define what celery is. Celery, scientifically known as *Apium graveolens*, is a marshland plant in the family Apiaceae that has been naturalized and cultivated worldwide. It is grown for its edible stalks, leaves, and seeds. The plant has a long fibrous root, and the leaves are compound with three to six pinnate leaflets.

Now, onto the edible parts:

### Petioles (Stems)

The most commonly consumed part of the celery plant is the petiole, which is the leaf stalk. However, it's important to note that what is often referred to as the "stalk" of the celery is actually the petiole, not the true stem. These petioles are the long, slender, and usually green parts that extend from the base of the plant. They are crisp and can be eaten raw or cooked.

### Leaves

The leaves of celery are also edible and are used in various cuisines around the world. They have a milder flavor than the petioles and can be used fresh or dried. Fresh leaves can be added to salads, soups, or used as a garnish. Dried leaves are often used as a seasoning or in the preparation of stocks and broths.

### Roots

Less commonly consumed, but still edible, are the roots of the celery plant. The roots are fibrous and have a strong celery flavor. They can be used in the same way as other root vegetables, such as in stews or soups.

### Seeds

Celery seeds are highly valued for their strong flavor and are used as a spice. They are often used in pickling, as a flavoring in soups, and in the preparation of various sauces and dressings.

### Misconceptions

The term "stalk" can indeed be misleading when applied to celery. In botanical terms, the true stem of the celery plant is not typically consumed. The part that is eaten is the petiole, which is the leaf stalk. The confusion arises because the petioles are the most prominent and structurally similar to what we commonly think of as a "stalk."

### Nutritional Value

Celery is not just a crunchy addition to your diet; it's also packed with nutrients. It's low in calories but high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion. It's a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and folate.

### Preparation and Consumption

When preparing celery, it's important to wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. The petioles can be eaten raw, dipped in hummus or peanut butter, or used in salads. When cooking, they can be sautéed, boiled, or added to soups and stews. The leaves can be used in a similar fashion, or they can be dried and used as a seasoning.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, the edible parts of celery include the petioles (often mistakenly called stalks), leaves, roots, and seeds. Each part offers a unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits, making celery a versatile and healthy addition to your diet.

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So, when you eat celery you eat the bottom part of the leaf, a fleshy petiole. Even if it doesn't look like a leaf, it is part of the leaf. One of the big problems here is that the word 'stalk' can be used for so many parts of a plant, including stem, leaf stalk, flower stalk, etc.Jan 13, 2014read more >>