Creamy Celery and Herb Soup

Experience the ultimate comfort in a bowl with this Creamy Celery and Herb Soup. This recipe transforms humble celery into a silky-smooth, sophisticated masterpiece, accented by a fragrant blend of fresh herbs. It is the perfect choice for a light lunch or a cozy starter that feels both nutritious and indulgent.

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The secret to this soup's depth lies in the gentle sautéing of the onions and celery, which brings out their natural sweetness before they are simmered to perfection in a savory vegetable broth. Each spoonful offers a balance of creamy richness and herbal freshness.

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, plus extra for garnish
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Finishing
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or crème fraîche (optional, for swirling)
• 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 achieve the smoothest possible purée, ensure that the celery and potato are completely tender before blending. If you are using a countertop blender, remember to blend in small batches and hold the lid down firmly with a towel to prevent steam pressure from causing splashes.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegan version, simply substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives and omit the cream swirl. To add extra layers of flavor, try a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables or a pinch of ground nutmeg for a warm, spicy undertone.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup piping hot with a generous garnish of fresh herbs and a side of crusty bread. For a beautiful presentation, add a swirl of crème fraîche just before serving. Note that this soup freezes exceptionally well if you omit the cream garnish until you are ready to eat.

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This Creamy Celery and Herb Soup is a testament to how simple, fresh ingredients can be transformed into a comforting and elegant meal. Enjoy the soothing warmth and bright herbal notes of this delicious homemade soup.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply substitute plant-based butter for regular butter, use unsweetened plant-based milk instead of dairy milk, and omit the cream or use a vegan cream alternative for garnish.

→ What herbs work best in celery soup?

Fresh parsley, dill, and chives provide a bright, aromatic flavor that complements celery beautifully. You can also experiment with thyme or tarragon for different flavor profiles.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes very well for up to 3 months. Freeze it before adding the cream garnish, then thaw and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding fresh cream when serving.

→ Why add potato to celery soup?

Potato adds body and creaminess to the soup when blended, creating a silky texture without needing excessive cream. It also helps balance the distinct celery flavor.

→ How do I prevent the soup from being too thin?

Ensure you use enough potato for body, and blend thoroughly until completely smooth. If it's still too thin after blending, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce and thicken.

→ Can I use celery leaves in this soup?

Absolutely! Celery leaves add extra flavor and can be chopped and added with the fresh herbs or used as a garnish. They have a slightly stronger taste than the stalks.