Corn soup

Creamy Corn and Celery Soup - a comforting recipe for chilly days

In our busy lives, sometimes we need a soup that soothes our soul and offers a sense of comfort. The creamy corn and celery soup recipe I’m sharing with you today is just what you need. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, being an excellent source of calcium necessary for bone and dental health.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 celery root (about 250 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1.5 tablespoons of butter
- 0.5 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 3 cups of 1% milk
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced small
- 3 green onions
- 2 cups of frozen corn
- Chopped chives and/or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by removing the leaves from the celery root. Set them aside, as you will use them later to add freshness to the soup. Dice the celery and onion into small cubes for even cooking. These vegetables will form the base of your soup.

2. Cooking the vegetables: In a large pot, add the butter and heat it over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted, add the celery and onion. Sprinkle the dried thyme to add a subtle yet delicious flavor. Stir the vegetables constantly until they become slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential as caramelizing the vegetables will enhance the flavors of your soup.

3. Adding the flour: After the vegetables are browned, add the flour and mix well. Cook the mixture for a few minutes. This step will help thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.

4. Incorporating the milk: Gradually pour the milk into the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Then, add the diced potato. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.

5. Boiling: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for about 10 minutes, until the potatoes are tender but not mushy. This will ensure that the soup's texture remains pleasant.

6. Finishing the soup: Meanwhile, finely chop the celery leaves and trim the ends of the green onions, then slice them thinly. When the potatoes are ready, add the frozen corn, green onion, and celery leaves. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes until the corn is heated through.

7. Seasoning: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. This is the stage where you can adjust the flavors and personalize the soup according to your preferences.

8. Serving: Once the soup is ready, pour it into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh look. You can add a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creaminess.

Practical tip: If you want a heartier soup, you can add cubes of cooked or smoked chicken, providing an even richer flavor. Also, for those who prefer a vegan version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil and the milk with almond or soy milk.

Delicious variations: Add spices like sweet paprika or a pinch of nutmeg for an exotic touch. Another idea is to include seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.

Nutrients and calories: This soup is not only tasty but also healthy. A serving contains about 250 calories, being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The consumption of corn is beneficial due to its antioxidant content and its ability to support heart health.

Serving suggestions: This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of garlic toast or crunchy croutons. You can enjoy a fresh green salad on the side to complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use celeriac instead of celery root?
- Yes, you can use celeriac, but the taste will be different, fresher, and less intense.

2. How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
- You can add more flour or let the soup simmer longer to reduce the liquid.

3. Is it possible to freeze the soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes very well! Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in freezing containers.

4. What drinks pair well with the soup?
- A refreshing drink like herbal tea or a natural fruit juice can perfectly complement this dish.

This creamy corn and celery soup is not just a simple recipe, but a story of comfort and health. I invite you to prepare it and bring your family and friends to the table. Enjoy your meal!