Description
Cream of Celery Soup is a simple, creamy, and flavorful soup that combines fresh celery with a smooth, rich creaminess. Perfect for any season or meal, this versatile soup can be tailored to your dietary needs and taste preferences. Whether you’re making a classic version or a creative variation, this comforting soup is easy to prepare and great for beginners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh celery, chopped finely
- 1 medium onion or 2 shallots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, for garnish
- Dairy-free alternatives: coconut milk or almond milk
- Variations: diced potatoes, red pepper flakes or cayenne, dill, tarragon, chives, sharp cheddar or Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash and finely chop fresh celery stalks. Dice the onions or shallots and mince the garlic. Even preparation helps the soup cook evenly and blend smoothly.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This develops the savory base flavors.
- Cook the Celery: Add the chopped celery to the pot and stir gently. Cook until the celery softens but retains a slight texture, about 8 minutes, enhancing the flavor without mushiness.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in vegetable or chicken broth to cover the vegetables. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes to meld flavors and fully tenderize the celery.
- Blend Until Smooth: Use an immersion blender or transfer in batches to a stand blender. Puree until smooth and creamy. Blend in small amounts and be careful with hot liquid for safety.
- Stir in Cream and Season: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in heavy cream or your chosen alternative. Heat gently without boiling. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs to taste. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy soup.
Notes
- Choose crisp, fresh celery for best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook the celery to avoid mushiness and bitterness.
- For an ultra-smooth texture, blend in batches and strain if desired.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding cream gradually to control richness.
- Add fresh herbs last to preserve their flavor and vibrant color.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally; add broth or cream if too thick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg