Are you craving a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy celery and potato soup is the perfect quick dinner idea, a healthy meal packed with flavor, and a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best. It's a simple recipe, perfect for even the busiest weeknights, yet sophisticated enough to impress your friends and family. Get ready to experience a taste sensation that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a wonderful base of flavor for your soup.
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Add potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Work in batches if using a regular blender, ensuring the lid is securely fastened to prevent spills.
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Stir in milk and seasonings: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the milk (or cream), thyme, salt, and pepper. Heat through gently; do not boil.
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Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. A swirl of cream or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions adds a beautiful final touch.
Tips for the Best Celery and Potato Soup:
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For a richer flavor: Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. You can also add a bay leaf while simmering the potatoes and remove it before blending.
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Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes will become mushy and affect the soup's texture. Ensure they are tender but still hold their shape slightly before blending.
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Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and thyme to suit your preferences. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce can also add interesting layers of flavor.
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Make it a complete meal: Add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for a heartier soup. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt also adds a lovely tang.
Variations:
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Creamy Carrot and Celery Soup: Simply add 2-3 diced carrots along with the potatoes.
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Spicy Celery and Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
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Roasted Celery and Potato Soup: Roast the celery and potatoes before adding them to the soup for a deeper, more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Protein: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This easy and delicious celery and potato soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick and healthy weeknight dinner. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe – it’s sure to become a family favorite!