Cream of celery soup, a classic comfort food, is surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Forget the canned versions; this homemade recipe is richer, more flavorful, and customizable to your taste. This guide will walk you through the process, answering common questions along the way.
What are the main ingredients in cream of celery soup?
The foundation of any great cream of celery soup rests on just a few key ingredients: celery, of course! Beyond that, you'll need aromatics like onions and garlic to build flavor depth, a rich broth (chicken or vegetable works wonderfully), and a creamy element, typically heavy cream or milk. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and potentially a touch of nutmeg or thyme elevates the soup to the next level.
How do you make cream of celery soup from scratch?
Let's dive into a detailed recipe. This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds celery, thinly sliced (about 4-5 stalks)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter soup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the aromatics: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the celery: Add the sliced celery to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften.
- Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the celery is very tender.
- 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.
- Stir in cream and season: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Heat through gently, but do not boil.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs, if desired.
Can you make cream of celery soup without cream?
Yes, absolutely! For a lighter, dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy texture and subtle coconut flavor. Alternatively, you can use milk (whole milk will yield a creamier result than skim) or even pureed potatoes for added thickness and creaminess.
How do you thicken cream of celery soup?
If your soup is thinner than you prefer, you can thicken it in a few ways. Adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) while the soup simmers will create a smoother, thicker consistency. Alternatively, you can stir in a little roux (a mixture of equal parts butter and flour cooked together) before adding the cream. Finally, as mentioned earlier, pureed potatoes also add significant thickening power.
What can you add to cream of celery soup for extra flavor?
The beauty of homemade cream of celery soup is its versatility. Experiment with different additions to create your perfect bowl! Consider adding:
- Bacon or pancetta: For a smoky, savory twist.
- Carrots and potatoes: For added vegetables and richness.
- Lemon juice or zest: For a bright, acidic note.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan or Gruyère cheese adds a salty, savory finish.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley, chives, or dill add fresh, vibrant flavors.
What to serve with cream of celery soup?
Cream of celery soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Grilled cheese sandwiches: A classic combination for a comforting meal.
- Roasted chicken or turkey: The soup complements the savory flavors of the poultry.
- Simple salad: A light salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Crustini or bread rolls: For dipping into the delicious soup.
By following this recipe and exploring the variations, you can create a delicious and personalized cream of celery soup that will impress your family and friends. Remember, the key is fresh, high-quality ingredients and a little patience to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
