Creamy Celery Soup Recipe: A Delicious and Simple Guide
Discover a delightful way to enjoy celery with this creamy celery soup recipe. With just five basic ingredients, you can create a smooth and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers room for personal touches to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- Celery: Approximately 1.5 bunches (12 to 15 large stalks), sliced ½ inch thick crosswise (about 6 cups), leaves reserved for garnish.
- Onion: One medium, coarsely chopped.
- Potato: One russet (8 to 10 ounces), peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons.
- Lemon Juice: 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh.
- Coarse Salt: To taste.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: A 4-quart saucepan or Dutch oven.
- Blender: An immersion blender or standard blender.
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced celery, chopped onion, and diced potato. Season with coarse salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Add Water and Simmer: Pour in 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Let it simmer until the vegetables are very tender, approximately 20 minutes.
- Purée the Soup: Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. If using a standard blender, work in batches, filling the blender halfway to prevent splattering. Remove the cap from the hole in the lid to allow steam to escape, covering the lid with a dish towel while blending.
- Season and Serve: Return the puréed soup to the saucepan. Stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot, garnished with reserved celery leaves.
Variations and Tips
- Make It Vegan: Replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
- Enhance Flavor: Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for a richer taste.
- Herbal Notes: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon during the final seasoning.
- Creamy Texture: For added richness, swirl in a splash of cream, half-and-half, or buttermilk before serving.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
Nutritional Information
This creamy celery soup is a light and healthy option, providing essential nutrients from the celery and potato. It’s low in calories and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences.
Conclusion
This creamy celery soup is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.