Cream of Celery Soup

If you are craving a comforting and rich soup that comes together effortlessly, this Cream of Celery Soup recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with fresh celery flavor, creamy texture, and simple ingredients, this soup is perfect for cozy lunches or easy dinners when time is short but taste matters. Learn how to make Cream of Celery Soup fast and enjoy a warm bowl that feels like a hug in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you still want homemade goodness.
• Fresh, Vibrant Flavor: The celery shines through with a natural crispness balanced by creamy undertones.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh celery, making it both practical and satisfying.
• Versatile Comfort Food: Easily customized to fit vegan, gluten-free, or low-fat preferences without losing its soul.
• Nutritious and Light: A wholesome soup that’s gentle on the stomach but full of vitamins and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create a silky and delicious Cream of Celery Soup, you only need a handful of key ingredients that each play a vital role in flavor, texture, and color. This simplicity keeps the soup light yet indulgent.

• Fresh Celery: The star of the show, providing that distinct crisp and fresh aroma.
• Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to balance the celery’s brightness.
• Garlic: Boosts the savory profile without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Butter or Olive Oil: For sautéing, creating a creamy base and enhancing mouthfeel.
• All-Purpose Flour: A thickening agent to give the soup a smooth, velvety consistency.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: The liquid foundation that carries all flavors and keeps the soup light.
• Milk or Cream: Adds luscious creaminess, with options to use dairy-free alternatives for flexibility.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the freshness and balance.

Variations for Cream of Celery Soup

This Cream of Celery Soup is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to tweak it depending on your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor cravings. Making it your own is a breeze!

• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with olive oil and use coconut or almond milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
• Extra Herbs: Add thyme, parsley, or dill for an herbal aroma that highlights the celery’s freshness.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded Parmesan or cheddar for a richer, indulgent flavor.
• Spiced Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper for a gentle warmth that complements the creamy base.
• Chunky Texture: Reserve part of the sautéed celery and onions to stir in at the end for contrast.

How to Make Cream of Celery Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating butter or olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant, usually about 3-4 minutes. This base develops layers of flavor that make the soup irresistible.

Step 2: Cook the Celery

Add chopped celery to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes until it softens slightly but retains a hint of crispness. This step pulls out the fresh flavor and sets the stage for blending.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables, stirring constantly to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This roux will thicken the soup beautifully once the broth is added.

Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth slowly while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the celery is completely tender.

Step 5: Blend to Creamy Perfection

Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches. Puree until smooth and creamy. Return the soup to the pot if needed.

Step 6: Finish with Cream and Season

Stir in milk or cream to enrich the texture and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently, avoiding boiling, then your Cream of Celery Soup is ready to serve piping hot.

Pro Tips for Making Cream of Celery Soup

• Choose Fresh Celery: Crisp, bright green stalks yield the best flavor and color in your soup.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking the flour with the veggies ensures a smooth, lump-free soup.
• Blend in Batches: If using a blender, work in small portions for safety and even texture.
• Adjust Creaminess: Use more or less milk/cream based on your preferred richness.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go to find the perfect balance of salt and pepper.

How to Serve Cream of Celery Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, croutons, or a dash of cracked black pepper adds appealing texture and visual appeal. A small drizzle of olive oil or a few drops of truffle oil can elevate it even further.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light salad to complement the creamy soup. For a heartier meal, pair with a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Pour the soup into mini bread bowls for individual servings or use decorative ramekins topped with a swirl of cream. For entertaining, serve small portions as an elegant appetizer with a celery stick garnish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make Cream of Celery Soup vegan?

Absolutely. Substitute butter with olive oil and use any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk for the creamy element.

Is it necessary to use flour in the recipe?

The flour acts as a thickener to get that classic creamy texture, but for gluten-free options, you can use cornstarch or omit it and blend more celery for natural thickness.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Potatoes, leeks, or carrots blend well and can add sweetness or heartiness depending on your preference.

How long does it take to make this soup from scratch?

You can expect to have it ready in about 25-30 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.

What can I use instead of cream if I want a lighter soup?

Simply use milk, half-and-half, or a plant-based substitute. You can also omit it for a broth-based lighter soup, though it won’t be as creamy.

Final Thoughts

This Cream of Celery Soup is a quick, easy, and utterly delicious way to enjoy the natural freshness of celery transformed into a smooth, creamy comfort food. Whether you are new to cooking soup or looking for a reliable weeknight recipe, this one hits all the marks. Give it a whirl and cozy up with a bowl of your new favorite homemade soup.

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