How to Make Creamy, Delicious Cream of Celery Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cream of celery soup, a classic comfort food, is surprisingly easy to make from scratch. This recipe provides a delicious, creamy base that you can easily customize to your liking. Forget the canned stuff – homemade cream of celery soup is far superior!
What Ingredients Do I Need for Cream of Celery Soup?
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. You'll need:
- Celery: The star of the show! Aim for about 2 large stalks, roughly chopped.
- Onion: Adds depth of flavor. One medium onion, chopped, is perfect.
- Butter or Oil: For sautéing the vegetables. About 2 tablespoons.
- Chicken Broth (or Vegetable Broth for a vegetarian version): Provides the soup's liquid base. Use about 4 cups.
- Heavy Cream or Coconut Cream: For that luxurious creaminess. About 1 cup.
- Flour or Cornstarch: A thickening agent to create a velvety texture. 2 tablespoons should suffice.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don't forget these essential seasonings!
- Optional additions: Consider adding things like garlic, carrots, potatoes, or even a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
How to Make Cream of Celery Soup: A Detailed Recipe
1. Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. If using garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking.
2. Cook the Celery: Add the chopped celery to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until it's tender-crisp.
3. Make a Roux (Optional, but Recommended): If using flour or cornstarch, whisk it into the butter or oil before adding the onions. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This step helps thicken the soup and creates a richer texture.
4. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the celery to fully soften.
5. Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids! Vent the lid slightly to prevent pressure buildup.
6. Stir in the Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut cream and heat through gently. Do not boil.
7. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley (optional).
What are Some Variations on Cream of Celery Soup?
H2: Can I make cream of celery soup without cream?
Yes! You can achieve a creamy consistency by using milk or half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For a vegan option, use full-fat coconut milk. The soup might be slightly thinner, but it will still be delicious. You can also use a potato or two to naturally thicken the soup.
H2: How can I make my cream of celery soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it further by making a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Then, slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering soup, stirring constantly until it thickens to your desired consistency.
H2: What other vegetables can I add to my cream of celery soup?
You can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your cream of celery soup by adding other vegetables. Carrots, potatoes, leeks, and parsnips all work well. Consider adding a diced apple for a subtle sweetness.
H2: How long can I store leftover cream of celery soup?
Leftover cream of celery soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before storing.
H2: Is cream of celery soup healthy?
Cream of celery soup can be part of a healthy diet, especially if you make it from scratch using fresh ingredients and control the amount of cream or fat added. Celery is a good source of vitamins and fiber. However, the high fat content from the cream should be considered when assessing its nutritional profile.
Enjoy your homemade cream of celery soup! It's a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy recipe to master. Remember to adjust seasoning and additions to perfectly suit your palate.
