Introduction
Celeriac soup is a delightful and hearty dish that showcases the unique flavor of celeriac, also known as celery root. This creamy soup is perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and comforting. Its rich, earthy tone paired with a subtle hint of herbs makes it a favorite among soup lovers. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, celeriac soup is sure to impress. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious bowl of goodness that highlights the best of this versatile vegetable.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Celeriac: 1 medium-sized, peeled and diced
Onion: 1 large, chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced
Vegetable stock: 4 cups
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried or a few sprigs of fresh
Salt: to taste
Pepper: to taste
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
Cream (optional): for garnish
Prep Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This nourishing celeriac soup is not only simple to prepare but also provides a healthy option for any meal. Enjoy the warming flavors and comforting texture that this dish has to offer. Feel free to get creative with garnishes, adding herbs or a drizzle of cream to make it your own!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling the celeriac and potatoes. Chop the celeriac and potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and garlic finely.
Cook the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the Celeriac and Potatoes
Add the chopped celeriac and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine and let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.
Add Stock and Seasoning
Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock until the vegetables are submerged. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for approximately 25 minutes, or until the celeriac and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blending until creamy.
Adjust Consistency
If the soup is too thick for your liking, add additional stock or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine.
Finish and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If desired, add a splash of cream for added richness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or croutons if preferred.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables such as leeks or carrots for additional flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, incorporate spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, ensure to use vegetable stock and omit any cream. The soup is still deliciously creamy without the cream.
Cook techniques
Blending for Smooth Texture
To achieve a creamy consistency, use an immersion blender or a stand blender. Blend until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Sauteing Aromatics
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in oil or butter before adding celeriac and broth. This step enhances the soup’s flavor base.
Roasting for Depth of Flavor
Roasting celeriac before adding it to the soup can bring out its natural sweetness and add a richer flavor profile.
Control the Consistency
Adjust the amount of broth you use to achieve your desired soup thickness. Add more for a thinner soup or less for a chunkier texture.
Seasoning to Taste
Taste the soup as it cooks, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to enhance the overall flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Yes, you can incorporate other root vegetables like potatoes or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply replace butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I garnish the soup with?
Common garnishes include croutons, a drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, or a dollop of cream.
How long can I store leftover soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well for longer storage.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and tastes even better after the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Celeriac soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that highlights the unique flavor of celeriac, making it a comforting option for any meal. Its creamy texture combined with the aromatic enhancements of garlic, onion, and herbs results in a hearty soup that is sure to please. This recipe is simple yet versatile, allowing for variations that can cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether served as a starter or a main course, celeriac soup provides warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly days.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Celeriac and Apple Soup
Combine celeriac with apples for a sweet and savory twist. The natural sweetness of apples enhances the flavor profile of the soup, making it a delightful option.
Celeriac and Potato Mash
For a creamy and flavorful side dish, mash celeriac with potatoes. This combination provides a unique texture and taste that complements roasted meats well.
Celeriac Salad
Make a refreshing salad by shredding raw celeriac and mixing it with a tangy dressing, nuts, and herbs for a crunchy side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled proteins.
Celeriac Gratin
Layer thinly sliced celeriac with cheese and cream to create a rich and decadent gratin, a perfect accompaniment to any main course.
Celeriac and Mushroom Risotto
Incorporate celeriac into a creamy risotto with mushrooms, offering an earthy flavor that enhances the dish’s overall richness and allows for a satisfying meal.