Stuffed Celery
Crisp celery stalks filled with creamy peanut butter—a nostalgic snack that delivers satisfying crunch and 5g of protein. De-stringing is essential for IBD digestion.
Stuffed Celery
Crisp celery stalks filled with creamy peanut butter—a nostalgic snack that delivers satisfying crunch and 5g of protein. De-stringing is essential for IBD digestion.
Ingredients
- Moderate FODMAP
- Low FODMAP
- Low FODMAP
- Moderate FODMAP
- Low FODMAP
- High FODMAP
Instructions
Rinse celery stalks under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel. Trim both ends.
Equipment: cutting board, vegetable peelerUsing a vegetable peeler or paring knife, remove all fibrous strings from the outer (curved) side of each stalk. Run the peeler from top to bottom in long, smooth strokes until the surface feels smooth.
Tip: Run your finger along the stalk—it should feel completely smooth with no bumps or ridgesCut each de-stringed stalk into 3-4 inch pieces.
Equipment: sharp knifeSpread 1-2 tablespoons of smooth peanut butter or cream cheese into the groove of each celery piece, filling the channel evenly from end to end.
Equipment: butter knifeTop with raisins, sunflower seeds, or everything bagel seasoning if desired, pressing gently to adhere.
Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
Notes
De-stringing is critical
The fibrous strings on celery stalks are pure insoluble fiber that may cause cramping, bloating, and irritation. Use a vegetable peeler to remove every visible string before eating. The stalk should feel smooth when you run your finger along it.
Smooth peanut butter only
Use creamy, smooth peanut butter without nut pieces. Chunky peanut butter contains whole nut fragments that may be difficult to digest. Choose natural peanut butter with just peanuts and salt when possible.
Cream cheese alternative
For a different flavor, use softened cream cheese instead of peanut butter. Lactose-free cream cheese is widely available and equally creamy.
Sunflower seed butter
For peanut allergy or a lower-fat option, sunflower seed butter works well. Check that it's smooth, not crunchy.
Storage
Filled celery is best eaten fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 hours. Beyond that, the celery becomes limp. Store celery and fillings separately for longer storage (up to 2 days).
Start small
Start with 2-3 pieces (about half a serving) to assess your tolerance to celery's fiber and mannitol content before eating a full serving.
IBD Considerations
Diet Protocol Compliance
How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches
