To use the flakes, either soften first by soaking in water for about five minutes, then drain, or add the flakes directly to dishes that have enough liquid to re-hydrate the leaves (like soups or gravies). When substituting for fresh celery, keep in mind that the dried flakes are stronger than the fresh stalk and re-hydrate to about six times their dry volume. Try about 1 tablespoon of celery flakes per one small stalk of fresh celery. Dried celery flakes are a convenient way to add celery"s distinctive flavor to stuffings, coleslaw, sauerkraut, curries, dressings, vegetable and egg dishes, tomato juice, sauces, salads, relishes, soups and breads. Try them in potpies, stewing chicken, and potato dishes.