Are you looking for a delicious and healthy soup recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This creamy celery root soup is the perfect comforting dish for a chilly evening, packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying healthy meal. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, and it's so flavorful, everyone will be asking for seconds! Let’s dive into this quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 large celery root (about 1.5 lbs), peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer, creamier soup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley, a dollop of crème fraîche or yogurt, toasted croutons
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.
Step 2: Add Celery Root and Broth: Add the diced celery root to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are mostly submerged.
Step 3: Simmer until Tender: Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the celery root is very tender.
Step 4: 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 to avoid splattering.
Step 5: Stir in Milk and Season: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the milk (or cream) and add the thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently; do not boil.
Tips for the Best Celery Root Soup:
- Peeling the Celery Root: Celery root can be a bit tricky to peel. Use a sharp vegetable peeler and take your time to avoid wasting too much of the vegetable.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked celery root can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes after blending to reduce the liquid. For a thinner soup, add a bit more broth.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, a swirl of crème fraîche, or some crunchy croutons can elevate your soup to the next level.
Variations:
- Spicy Celery Root Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Apple Celery Root Soup: Add 1 diced apple along with the onion and carrots for a sweet and savory twist.
- Leek and Celery Root Soup: Replace the onion with 1 leek, thinly sliced, for a more delicate flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the type of milk/cream used)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This delicious and healthy celery root soup is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the celery root are balanced beautifully by the aromatic herbs and vegetables. Enjoy this homemade masterpiece!