Cream Of Celery Soup Recipe

Cream of celery soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for decades. This comforting and creamy soup has a rich and savory flavor that is perfect for any season. It is a great way to use up extra celery and create a delicious and satisfying meal. In this recipe, we will break down the ingredients and steps to make a delicious cream of celery soup from scratch.

But first, let's dive into the history and fun facts about cream of celery soup. Cream of celery soup is believed to have originated in France, where celery was a popular ingredient in traditional French cuisine. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the soup made it a hit among the French, and it quickly spread to other parts of Europe and the United States.

Fun fact: Cream of celery soup became especially popular in the United States in the 1950s when condensed soups started to gain popularity. This convenient and ready-to-serve soup became a staple in American households and was often used as a versatile ingredient in various recipes.

Now, let's get started with the recipe for cream of celery soup:

Ingredients:
- 3 stalks of celery
- 1 slice of onion
- 3 cups of milk
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of cream

Instructions:
1. Start by breaking three stalks of celery into one-inch pieces. You can cut off the ends and discard any tough or woody parts of the celery.
2. Pound the celery pieces in a mortar to release their flavors and aromas. This step helps to infuse the soup with the essence of celery.
3. In a double boiler, combine the pounded celery, one slice of onion, and three cups of milk. If you don't have a double boiler, you can use a regular saucepan but be sure to stir frequently to prevent scorching.
4. Cook the celery, onion, and milk mixture over medium heat for about twenty minutes, or until the celery is tender and the flavors have melded together. This slow cooking process allows the celery to release its flavors into the milk, creating a rich and flavorful broth.
5. Once the soup has cooked, remove the slice of onion from the mixture and discard it. The onion serves to enhance the flavors but is not meant to be consumed.
6. In a separate saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add two tablespoons of flour and stir continuously until it forms a smooth paste. This mixture is known as a roux and helps to thicken the soup.
7. Add the pepper, salt, and two-thirds of a cup of the celery broth to the roux. Stir well to combine, ensuring that there are no lumps.
8. Gradually add the remaining celery broth to the saucepan, stirring continuously to prevent clumping. This step helps to incorporate all the flavors and create a smooth and velvety soup.
9. Finally, add one cup of cream to the soup and continue cooking until the mixture is heated through and smooth in texture. Be careful not to let the soup boil, as this may cause the cream to curdle.
10. Once the soup is ready, serve it immediately. Cream of celery soup is best enjoyed hot, but you can also let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving to maintain its smooth and creamy consistency.

Cream of celery soup can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting and wholesome meal or served as an appetizer before a main course. It pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or leeks for added flavor and texture.

If you're looking for similar recipes, cream of mushroom soup is another popular and delicious creamy soup option. It follows a similar process, replacing the celery with mushrooms, and offers a rich and earthy flavor. Cream of broccoli soup is also a favorite, providing a vibrant and nutritious option for vegetable lovers.

So there you have it - a delicious cream of celery soup recipe steeped in history and filled with flavor. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting dish in the comfort of your own home.