Celery and vegetable cream soup

Celery and Vegetable Cream Soup – a treasure of flavors and goodness

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Today, I invite you to prepare together a celery and vegetable cream soup, a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting bowl of health. This soup is not only easy to make but also packed with essential nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables it contains. If you are looking for a quick dessert or a simple recipe to accompany the meal, I will also provide some serving suggestions.

A brief history of cream soup

Cream soup has become popular worldwide as a way to transform simple ingredients into sophisticated dishes. This cooking technique has been used for centuries to create creamy dishes that delight the taste buds. The origins of cream soup can be found in culinary traditions that utilize vegetables to create comforting, nutritious, and, of course, delicious dishes.

Ingredients

- 1 piece of celery root (approximately the size of a fist)
- 1 medium potato
- 1 green onion
- 1 green garlic stalk
- salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 500 ml chicken broth (or water)
- 1 piece of red bell pepper
- 1 piece of yellow bell pepper
- 1 carrot

Ingredient details

- Celery is a vegetable rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (potassium, calcium), with a slightly sweet and aromatic taste. It is fantastic for digestion and helps hydrate the body.
- The potato provides a creamy texture to the soup. Choose a starchy potato for the best results.
- The green onion and green garlic add an extra layer of flavor and a fresh aroma, perfect for a comforting soup.
- The carrot enriches the soup with its natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- The red and yellow peppers will add a note of freshness and a pleasing color contrast.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the celery root, potato, carrot, peppers, and garlic. Cut them into small cubes for even cooking. The green onion can be finely chopped.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan (ideally a Doubletta pan), add the two tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté the chopped green onion and garlic over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and aromatic. Add the diced peppers and sauté for a few more minutes.

3. Boiling the vegetables: In a separate pot, add the diced potato, carrot, and celery. Pour in salted water (or chicken broth) and let them boil over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and a fork easily pierces them.

4. Combining the ingredients: When the vegetables are cooked, add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the pot. Pour in a bit of chicken broth from a separate pot to intensify the flavors. Let it boil together for another 5-10 minutes until the soup thickens.

5. Blending: Take a ladleful of the mixture and place it in a small bowl. Using an immersion blender, puree the vegetables until you achieve a creamy consistency. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use a countertop blender.

6. Serving: Serve the soup hot, adding a drizzle of olive oil on top of each serving, and if you like, sprinkle some crunchy croutons or toasted seeds for added texture. Don’t forget to add a splash of fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, for a vibrant taste and color.

Practical tips

- For better flavor, you can add spices like thyme or basil during boiling to give the soup a more complex taste.
- Variations: You can substitute celery with zucchini or add broccoli for extra nutrients. Additionally, adding vegetables like peas or green beans is an excellent option.
- Serving: This cream soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a crunchy crouton. A delicious combination would be to serve it alongside a fresh vegetable salad.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and can be used without issues in this recipe. However, the texture may be slightly different.
- How much water should I use? Use enough liquid to cover the vegetables, but don’t overdo it. Chicken broth adds a richer flavor, and water is an excellent option if you want to keep the recipe budget-friendly.
- How can I store the soup? The cream soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if it’s too thick.

Nutritional benefits

This celery and vegetable cream soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consuming fresh vegetables contributes to healthy digestion and helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, due to its high fiber content, this soup will keep you full longer.

I hope this celery and vegetable cream soup recipe brings joy and health to your table. Don’t forget to let your creativity shine by adding your own variations and favorite spices. Enjoy your meal!