Celery has long been used for medicinal purposes, dating back to the 9th century. The first recorded use of celery as food was in France in 1623 and then later in the 19th century it was introduced to the United States.
During this time period, celery became an exotic food important to the “class” conscious consumer. Serving celery at your dinner party was a sign of socioeconomic status. This vegetable was so important it was often displayed in a “celery vase” with a prominent presentation on the table. Although we don't think of celery as medicine or even as a sign of status anymore, its health benefits cannot be denied.
Six Reasons to Eat More Celery
ONE Celery is an excellent source of Vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin that allows your blood to clot, protects bones from fracture, prevents bone loss and calcification of the arteries.
TWO Celery is rich in compounds known as coumarins, which are useful in cancer prevention, enhancing the activity of white blood cells and alleviating migraines.
THREE Celery serves as a great electrolyte replacement as it is very good source of potassium and sodium.
FOUR Celery has the phytochemical phthalides which lowers blood pressure by relaxing the muscle tissue in artery walls and increasing blood flow.
FIVE Celery is a source of silicon, a nutrient important for bone health that helps renew joints, bones and connective tissue.
SIX Celery also has acetylenics and phenolic acids which has shown to stop or block the growth of cancer cells.
Resources: The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods, The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, Savory Suppers and Fashionable Feast
When I think of celery I think of wings….the two really do go hand in hand. Last week I had a hankering for buffalo wings, only one problem, I didn't have any wings. I did however have a package of chicken thighs. So I improvised. Boy am I glad I did. Easy, quick and delicious describes this meal and an easy way to EAT MORE CELERY. Enjoy!
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Buttery Buffalo Sauce
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Bake Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. Chicken Thighs
- 1/3 c. Red Hot Sauce
- 1/3 c. Ghee or Butter
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce (No HFCS!)
Directions
- Bake chicken thighs at 375 for 40 minutes turning once at the midpoint.
- In saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sauce ingredients until melted and well combined.
- Before serving, brush baked thighs with sauce and serve remaining on the side for dipping.
