Creamy Celery Soup is a comforting and elegant dish that showcases the subtle, fresh flavor of celery. This velvety soup is perfect for a light lunch or as a starter for a dinner party. With its smooth texture and rich taste, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large leek, trimmed to just the white and pale green sections, thinly sliced
- 1 pound (450 g) celery, chopped (about 6-8 stalks)
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sliced leek. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
- Add the Celery and Potatoes: Stir in the chopped celery and diced potatoes. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, letting the vegetables become slightly tender.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Heat the mixture until it reaches a rolling boil, then lower the temperature to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the celery and potatoes are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you lack an immersion blender, carefully pour the soup in portions into a regular blender, process until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently over low heat until it’s warmed through, but do not let it boil.
- Dish Up: Pour the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
Conclusion
This Creamy Celery Soup is a delightful and refined dish that brings out the best in fresh ingredients. Its smooth texture and gentle flavors make it an ideal choice for a cozy meal or an elegant starter. Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying experience. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious soup!