Creamy Celery and Herb Soup

Discover the elegance of simplicity with this Creamy Celery and Herb Soup. This dish transforms humble celery stalks into a silky-smooth, comforting experience, utilizing a blend of fresh parsley, dill, and chives to provide a light yet flavorful finish that is both sophisticated and homey.

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By sautéing the onions and celery until just softened, you build a delicate flavor profile that is beautifully enhanced by the vegetable broth. The final touch of fresh herbs added just before blending ensures the soup maintains a vibrant, garden-fresh taste.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 medium onion (chopped), 6 celery stalks (sliced, about 400 g), 1 medium potato (peeled and diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Liquids: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
• Herbs & Seasoning: 1 bay leaf, 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped), 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Finishing: 2 tbsp heavy cream or crème fraîche (optional), Crusty bread for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned.

Step 2

Add the sliced celery and diced potato. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15–18 minutes, or until the celery and potato are very tender.

Step 5

Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the milk and fresh herbs (parsley, dill, chives). Simmer for 2 more minutes.

Step 6

Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender (or carefully in batches in a countertop blender).

Step 7

Return the soup to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat gently if needed.

Step 8

Ladle into bowls, swirl in cream or crème fraîche if desired, and garnish with extra herbs. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure a perfectly smooth finish, make sure the potato pieces are fully cooked through before blending. This soup freezes well without the cream garnish, so you can easily store leftovers for a quick future meal. Always remember to remove the bay leaf before using your immersion blender.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply use plant-based butter and milk, and omit the cream or use a dairy-free alternative. You can add extra richness by deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables, or try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a touch of warmth.

Serviervorschläge

Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top with a swirl of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a professional look. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the savory broth.

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This Creamy Celery and Herb Soup is an ideal recipe for anyone seeking a nourishing, easy-to-make meal that doesn't compromise on flavor. With its vibrant green color and rich, velvety texture, it offers a refreshing twist on classic vegetable soup that will leave you feeling satisfied and warmed from the inside out.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop. Add the cream garnish just before serving for best presentation.

→ How do I make this soup vegan?

Simply substitute plant-based butter for regular butter, use unsweetened plant-based milk instead of dairy milk, and skip the cream garnish or use a vegan alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.

→ Can I freeze this celery soup?

Absolutely. The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze without the cream garnish, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. Add fresh cream and herbs when serving.

→ What can I substitute for celery if I don't have enough?

You can add extra potato or include vegetables like leeks, fennel, or cauliflower. These will change the flavor profile slightly but still create a delicious, creamy soup.

→ Do I need an immersion blender for this soup?

An immersion blender is convenient but not essential. You can use a regular countertop blender instead. Just blend in batches, being careful with the hot liquid, and leave the lid slightly vented to release steam.

→ How can I add more flavor to this soup?

Try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables, a pinch of nutmeg for warmth, or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Toasted celery seeds or a drizzle of truffle oil also elevate the flavor beautifully.