Cream of Celery Soup
Cream of Celery Soup is a rich, velvety dish that offers a deliciously creamy texture paired with the refreshing taste of fresh celery. This comforting soup is perfect for colder weather or as a light appetizer for a multi-course meal.
The blend of tender celery, onions, garlic, and a smooth cream base creates a soup that’s both satisfying and wholesome. It’s also a wonderful way to incorporate the benefits of celery into your diet, as it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
This soup is easy to prepare and requires a few simple ingredients that transform into a hearty, smooth, and flavorful bowl of goodness. Whether served as a starter or a light lunch, this dish will warm you up and leave you feeling nourished. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the method to create this classic cream of celery soup.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh celery, chopped (about 4-5 stalks)
1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, for added creaminess)
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make:
Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preparing your vegetables. Chop the celery into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks evenly. Dice the potato (if using), as it will help thicken the soup and contribute to its creamy texture. Finely chop the onion and garlic for a smooth consistency in the soup.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Cook the Celery: Add the chopped celery and diced potato (if using) to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the celery and potato are tender.
Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat, and discard the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender in batches. Be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in a regular blender, and then return it to the pot once pureed.
Add the Cream: Once the soup is blended, stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version). Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a little more broth or water at this point to reach your desired consistency.
Final Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together and the soup is heated through.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. You can serve the soup as is or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Chef’s Note:
If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream. For a lighter option, you can also use low-fat milk.
The addition of potato is optional but helps to thicken the soup naturally. If you prefer a more delicate texture, you can skip the potato.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or white pepper to the soup. These spices complement the creaminess and the earthiness of celery beautifully.
If you prefer a chunky soup, you can reserve a portion of the cooked celery and potato, then stir it back into the soup after blending.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 3 grams
Fat: 18 grams
Saturated Fat: 11 grams
Carbohydrates: 17 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 5 grams
Cholesterol: 50 mg
Sodium: 800 mg
Potassium: 450 mg
Vitamin A: 12% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
Calcium: 6% of the DV
Iron: 6% of the DV
Note: The nutrition values may vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size. For a lighter soup, consider using less butter, opting for low-fat cream, or substituting with a plant-based milk.
This Cream of Celery Soup is the epitome of comfort food, with its smooth and creamy texture paired with the fresh, mild flavor of celery. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it as a starter for a more elaborate meal, it’s sure to delight your taste buds. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have a nourishing, delicious soup ready in no time. Enjoy!