Best Celery Substitutes

🍳 SubSwap guide 5 substitutes 🌿 vegan options 🥛 dairy-free options 🌾 gluten-free options

What Can I Use Instead of Celery in a Recipe?

⭐ Top Pick
Green Bell Pepper
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Use 75% of the called-for amount (so if the recipe calls for 1 cup Celery, use 0.75 cup Green Bell Pepper). Sweeter and less herbaceous; use slightly less in soups and stews to avoid overpowering.

Not this one? Try: Carrots Fennel Onion See all 5 →

Looking for the best Celery substitute? You're in the right place. We've rounded up 5 reliable Celery replacements that work in cooking and baking — ranked and explained so you can pick the right one for your recipe. Great for when you want to save money at the store or keep things plant-based. The top pick is Green Bell Pepper — it's the closest match for most recipes. Use 75% of the amount. Sweeter and less herbaceous; use slightly less in soups and stews to avoid overpowering.

Want exact ratios calculated for your specific recipe? Use the free SubSwap calculator.

Get ratios for Celery →

All Celery Substitutes (5 options)

Carrots Same amount
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Sweeter and lack celery's slight bitterness; chop finely if the recipe relies on delicate texture. Best in soups and stews.

Fennel Use 75%
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Has stronger anise-like flavor; use about three-quarters the amount and add gradually to taste.

Green Bell Pepper Use 75%
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Sweeter and less herbaceous; use slightly less in soups and stews to avoid overpowering.

Onion Use 50%
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Much sweeter and lacks celery's crisp texture; use less and cook longer if texture is important.

Zucchini Same amount
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Milder flavor and softer texture; works in cooked dishes like soups and stews but won't provide crisp aromatics or saltiness.

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Tips for Substituting Celery

For most recipes, Green Bell Pepper is the best starting point. Sweeter and less herbaceous; use slightly less in soups and stews to avoid overpowering. Going plant-based? Carrots is a vegan-friendly option that work well in most recipes. Watching your grocery budget? Carrots is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you need a gluten-free alternative, Carrots fits the bill without the gluten.


Common Questions About Celery Substitutes

What is the best substitute for Celery?

The best substitute for Celery is Green Bell Pepper. Use about 75% of the amount called for. Sweeter and less herbaceous; use slightly less in soups and stews to avoid overpowering.

How many substitutes are there for Celery?

This guide lists 5 Celery alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.

What is a vegan substitute for Celery?

Carrots is a great plant-based alternative to Celery. Sweeter and lack celery's slight bitterness; chop finely if the recipe relies on delicate texture. Best in soups and stews.

Also commonly substituted

Fennel Bulb Green Pepper Water Chestnuts Butter Egg Buttermilk Milk Flour Sugar Baking powder Baking soda Vanilla extract

Related ingredients

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