Cream of celery soup, a classic comfort food, is surprisingly easy to make from scratch. This recipe goes beyond the canned version, offering a depth of flavor and a luxuriously creamy texture that will impress even the most discerning soup connoisseurs. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this guide will walk you through creating a delicious bowl of homemade cream of celery soup.
What are the Key Ingredients for Cream of Celery Soup?
The foundation of a great cream of celery soup lies in its ingredients. While variations exist, the core components typically include:
- Celery: The star of the show! Use plenty of fresh celery stalks for the best flavor. About 2-3 large stalks, chopped, is a good starting point.
- Onion: A small to medium onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth. Shallots can also be used for a milder, more delicate flavor.
- Butter or Oil: A fat base for sautéing the aromatics (onion and celery). Butter imparts a richer flavor, while oil offers a lighter option.
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. Choose a broth that aligns with your dietary preferences and desired flavor profile.
- Potatoes (optional): Adding diced potatoes creates a creamier, thicker soup. Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work well.
- Milk or Cream: This is what gives the soup its creamy texture. Heavy cream results in the richest soup, while milk provides a lighter option. You can even use a combination of both!
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and other seasonings (such as thyme, bay leaf, or nutmeg) are essential for enhancing the flavor.
How Much Celery Do I Need for Cream of Celery Soup?
The amount of celery you need depends on the quantity of soup you're making and your personal preference. A good rule of thumb is to use about 2-3 large stalks of celery for a medium-sized pot of soup (approximately 6-8 servings). Don't be afraid to experiment and adjust the celery quantity to your liking! More celery will result in a more intense celery flavor.
What Can I Add to My Cream of Celery Soup for Extra Flavor?
The beauty of cream of celery soup is its versatility. You can easily elevate the flavor profile with a variety of additions:
- Garlic: A clove or two of minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, bay leaf, or even a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the soup's complexity.
- Cheese: A dollop of cream cheese or shredded cheddar cheese stirred in at the end adds richness and a savory note.
- Bacon or Pancetta: Crispy bacon or pancetta bits added as a garnish provide a salty, smoky contrast.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
Can I Make Cream of Celery Soup Without Potatoes?
Yes, you can absolutely make cream of celery soup without potatoes. While potatoes contribute to the soup's thickness and creaminess, they are not essential. Omitting potatoes will result in a slightly thinner soup, but the flavor will still be delicious. You might need to adjust the amount of milk or cream to achieve your desired consistency.
How Do I Thicken Cream of Celery Soup?
If your cream of celery soup is too thin, there are several ways to thicken it:
- More Potatoes: Adding a diced potato and simmering until tender will thicken the soup naturally.
- Flour or Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Whisk this slurry into the simmering soup and cook until it thickens.
- Cream Cheese: Stir in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese until it melts and thickens the soup.
Step-by-Step Cream of Celery Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 large celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 1 cup milk or cream (or a combination)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Potato (optional): Pour in broth and add diced potatoes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Blend: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in Cream: Return the soup to the pot. Stir in milk or cream, season with salt and pepper, and heat through (do not boil).
- Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs (if using) and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade cream of celery soup! Remember to adjust seasonings to your taste preference. This recipe provides a solid base, feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and additions to create your own signature bowl of deliciousness.
