Cream of celery soup, a classic comfort food, is surprisingly easy to make from scratch. This recipe elevates the humble celery to a culinary star, showcasing its subtle sweetness and earthy notes in a rich and creamy broth. Forget the canned stuff – homemade cream of celery soup is far superior in flavor and texture. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large celery stalks, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for a vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (optional, but enhances the celery flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or crackers (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent and the celery is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the celery to become very tender. This slow simmering extracts maximum flavor from the celery.
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Blend for Creaminess: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Work in batches if necessary, venting the lid to release steam.
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Season and Finish: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), salt, pepper, and celery seed (if using). Heat through gently, but do not boil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses some common questions people have about making cream of celery soup.
How can I make my cream of celery soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it in a few ways: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, or simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. You could also add a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to thicken it.
Can I use other vegetables in my cream of celery soup?
Absolutely! Adding other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or leeks can add complexity and depth of flavor. Just be sure to chop them to a similar size as the celery and add them along with the onion in step 1.
What are some variations of cream of celery soup?
Get creative! Add a splash of sherry or white wine for a more sophisticated flavor. Roasted celery adds a deeper, nuttier taste. You can also incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. A dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche adds a tangy contrast.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Is cream of celery soup healthy?
While it's a creamy and indulgent soup, cream of celery soup can be part of a balanced diet. Celery is a low-calorie vegetable packed with nutrients. However, the use of heavy cream does add fat and calories. Using a lighter cream or coconut milk can reduce the richness.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying bowl of homemade cream of celery soup that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
