• 1 pound celery stalks, trimmed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons vinegar, preferably rice or cider
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili oil, optional.

1. Cut celery into 2-inch lengths. Mix with salt and sugar, and set aside. Whisk together remaining ingredients.

2. Rinse, drain and pat celery dry. Toss with dressing. Let stand in refrigerator at least 3 hours, and up to a day. Serve chilled.