With the chill of winter in the air, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of creamy celeriac soup. The moment I first sliced into a celeriac bulb, its peculiar shape piqued my curiosity, but the real magic happens when you coax its earthy flavors into a velvety, luxurious soup. Imagine sautéing shallots in butter until they turn golden, releasing a tantalizing aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s pure comfort in a bowl, and surprisingly, it comes together with minimal effort.
This soup isn’t just a delightful way to warm up; it’s a versatile canvas waiting for your personal touch. Whether you enjoy it as a starter for a dinner party or a nourishing lunch on a busy day, creamy celeriac soup is sure to become a staple in your home. So grab your apron, and let’s indulge in a recipe that promises to turn humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary!
Why is Creamy Celeriac Soup a Must-Try?
Warmth: This soup offers an unparalleled comfort that soothes the soul on chilly days.
Richness: The creamy texture combined with earthy celeriac creates a luscious experience with every spoonful.
Simplicity: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to whip up after a long day.
Versatility: Enjoy it as a starter or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress guests with a gourmet dish that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to prepare.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this cozy recipe that’s bound to win hearts!
Creamy Celeriac Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a velvety masterpiece!
For the Soup
• Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons (60g) – adds richness and depth to the soup’s flavor.
• Medium shallot – 1 (chopped) – enhances the overall aroma and sweetness of the dish.
• Celeriac bulbs – 2 medium – the star of the show, bringing a unique earthy flavor to the creamy celeriac soup.
• Kosher salt – to taste – balances the flavors and elevates each ingredient.
• Chicken or vegetable stock – 3 cups (700mL) – provides a savory base, enhancing the soup’s depth.
• Heavy cream – ½ cup (120mL) – creates the luxurious creaminess that makes this soup indulgent.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley or chives (optional) – finely chopped – adds a pop of color and freshness to your serving.
Now you have everything you need to create a sumptuous bowl of creamy celeriac soup that will warm your soul!
How to Make Creamy Celeriac Soup
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Prepare the Celeriac: Using a sharp knife, slice off the top and bottom of the celeriac bulbs. Carefully peel the skin away, just like you would with citrus fruit, to reveal the tender flesh inside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook for about 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and translucent.
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Cook the Celeriac: Cut the celeriac into medium-sized chunks and add them to the saucepan. Stir to coat in butter and season with a sprinkle of kosher salt. Sauté until the celeriac starts to get golden and softens.
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Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 30 minutes, or until the celeriac chunks are completely tender and the stock has reduced slightly.
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Blend Until Smooth: Carefully transfer the soup to a high-powered blender and purée until completely smooth, ensuring a silky texture. Return the soup to the saucepan and whisk in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for an additional 10 minutes to merge the flavors.
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Final Touches: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Divide among bowls and garnish with finely chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
Optional: Drizzle a little extra cream on top for added elegance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Celeriac Soup
Fridge: Store creamy celeriac soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its silky texture.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy this comforting soup.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock or cream to restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent uneven heating.
Make Ahead Options
Creamy Celeriac Soup is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can chop your celeriac and shallot up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 1-4) and let it cool, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup gently on the stove, then blend in the heavy cream and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. This way, you maintain the deliciously rich flavor and creamy texture, ensuring your soup is just as delightful as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Creamy Celeriac Soup?
Pair this luscious soup with delightful accompaniments for a truly memorable meal experience.
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Crusty French Bread: The crispy crust and soft interior are perfect for dipping, creating a satisfying texture contrast.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Flavorful and warm, these are a fun hand-held option to soak up every drop of the creamy soup.
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Roasted Vegetable Salad: Bright, roasted seasonal veggies lend freshness and a pop of color, balancing the richness of the soup.
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Cheesy Grilled Cheese: A classic pairing! The melty cheese and crispy bread create a wonderful flavor harmony with the creamy celeriac soup.
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Apple and Walnut Salad: The sweetness of apples and crunch of walnuts provide a refreshing counterpoint to the earthiness of celeriac.
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Savory Scones: Buttery scones infused with herbs complement the soup’s creamy texture while adding a touch of sophistication.
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Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle over the soup before serving for an aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc’s acidity contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy profile of the soup.
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Caramelized Pear Tart: End the meal on a sweet note; the tartness and sweetness of pears play wonderfully off the soup’s flavors.
Tips for the Best Creamy Celeriac Soup
• Perfect Peeling: Take your time when peeling celeriac; the skin can be tough. Use a sharp knife to avoid cutting into the flesh.
• Stock Choices: Chicken stock adds richness, while vegetable stock keeps it lighter and vegan. Choose the one that suits your taste and dietary needs.
• Smooth Texture: For the best creamy celeriac soup, blend long enough to achieve a velvety consistency. Chunky soup isn’t the goal, so puree thoroughly!
• Seasoning Balance: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the kosher salt as necessary to ensure a well-rounded flavor.
• Flavor Enhancer: Enhance the depth with a touch of nutmeg or black pepper for added warmth and complexity. Just a pinch goes a long way!
Creamy Celeriac Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this creamy delight; your kitchen is your canvas!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, tropical twist. It adds a wonderful creaminess while keeping it plant-based.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the soup while blending. This spice elevates the flavor profile beautifully, warming you from the inside out.
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Root Vegetable Blend: Mix in other root vegetables such as potatoes or parsnips for added flavor depth. This combination brings a delicious sweetness and texture to the soup.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while simmering. Just a few sprigs can make a world of difference, infusing your soup with fragrant notes.
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Nutty Crunch: Top your soup with toasted nuts or seeds, such as hazelnuts or pumpkin seeds, for a satisfying crunch. They add an unexpected texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
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Garnish Upgrade: Swap parsley and chives with crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for a savory finish. This will not only enhance the flavor but also create a hearty dish.
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Lemon Zing: Drizzle a bit of lemon juice just before serving for a refreshing brightness. The acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfectly balanced bowl.
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Asian Fusion: Incorporate miso paste in the blend for umami goodness. This gives the soup a unique Asian flair and a depth of flavor that is truly delightful.
Creamy Celeriac Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe celeriac?
Absolutely! When choosing celeriac, look for bulbs that feel heavy for their size and have firm, unblemished skin. Avoid those with dark spots or soft patches, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh celeriac should feel solid in your hands and have a slightly earthy aroma.
How should I store leftover creamy celeriac soup?
Very simple! Transfer your creamy celeriac soup to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep that lovely smooth texture.
Can I freeze creamy celeriac soup?
The more the merrier! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. I recommend portioning it out, so you can thaw just what you need. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove—maybe adding a splash of stock or cream to revive its creamy perfection!
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
No worries! If you find your creamy celeriac soup is thicker than desired, simply add a bit of warm chicken or vegetable stock while gently stirring, until you reach your preferred consistency. If the flavor becomes diluted, a small pinch of salt or a sprinkle of pepper can help balance it out.
Is creamy celeriac soup safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! While the basic recipe is generally safe, always account for any dietary restrictions. The heavy cream can be substituted with coconut milk or almond milk for dairy-free options. Just be sure to check all ingredient labels carefully, especially if cooking for someone with allergies.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Very straightforward! To make creamy celeriac soup vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative (like olive oil or vegan butter), and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a rich cashew cream. This way, you can still enjoy a luxuriously creamy texture without any animal products. Plus, the flavors will still sing!
Creamy Celeriac Soup That Will Warm Your Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Celeriac: Slice off the top and bottom of the celeriac bulbs and peel the skin away.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a saucepan, add the shallot and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Celeriac: Cut the celeriac into chunks, add to the saucepan, and sauté until golden and soft.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in stock and simmer until celeriac is tender, about 30 minutes.
- Blend Until Smooth: Transfer the soup to a blender and purée until smooth, then whisk in the cream.
- Final Touches: Adjust seasoning, divide into bowls and garnish with parsley or chives.