Chinese celery is not the same as lovage, although it can be used as a substitute in some cases. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can tell you that these two plants have distinct differences in terms of their appearance, flavor, and culinary uses.
Appearance-wise, Chinese celery (also known as cutting celery) has thin, hollow stalks and leaves that resemble traditional celery. On the other hand, lovage has thicker, more robust stalks and larger, more divided leaves that resemble those of parsley. The overall growth habit of these plants is also different, with lovage often reaching taller heights than Chinese celery.
When it comes to flavor, lovage has a unique taste that combines elements of celery and parsley but in a stronger and more intense way. The flavor of lovage can be overpowering if used in large quantities, so it is often recommended to use it sparingly in recipes. Chinese celery, while having a similar flavor profile to traditional celery, is milder and less intense compared to lovage.
In terms of culinary uses, Chinese celery is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a flavoring agent in stir-fries, soups, and salads. It can be used as a substitute for traditional celery in most recipes, although the flavor may not be as pronounced. Lovage, on the other hand, is not as widely used but can be utilized in various dishes such as stews, stocks, and herbal teas. Its strong flavor makes it a great addition to dishes that require a bold and aromatic taste.
I remember a personal experience where I was experimenting with a recipe that called for lovage, but I didn’t have any on hand. Instead, I decided to use Chinese celery as a substitute. While the dish turned out well, I could definitely taste a difference in the overall flavor. The Chinese celery provided a milder and less pronounced taste compared to what lovage would have brought to the dish.
To summarize, Chinese celery and lovage are not the same plant. While Chinese celery can be used as a substitute for lovage in some cases, it does not provide the same intense flavor and may not be suitable for all recipes. If you are specifically looking to replicate the unique taste of lovage, it would be best to seek out the real thing or explore other alternatives such as celery leaves.
