Celery, often overlooked, is a versatile vegetable packed with essential nutrients. This creamy celery soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s easy to make, and the creamy texture and flavorful broth will satisfy your cravings.
Health Benefits of Celery
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Celery is a good source of vitamins A, K, and C, as well as potassium and folate.
- Low in Calories: It’s a low-calorie vegetable, making it a great choice for weight management.
- Hydrating: Celery has a high water content, helping to keep you hydrated.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: It contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Digestive Health: The fiber in celery can promote healthy digestion.
Ingredients:
- 300 g celery, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 35 g parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 liter vegetable stock
- 100 ml double cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
- Add the celery, potatoes, and courgette to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the Stock:
- Pour the vegetable stock into the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the soup until smooth.
- Add Cream (Optional):
- Stir in the double cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips for a Perfect Creamy Celery Soup:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor.
- Vegetable Stock: For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable stock.
- Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can add a splash of milk or cream.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add other herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or nutmeg.
- Texture: For a chunkier soup, blend the soup partially or leave some vegetables whole.
By incorporating this delicious and nutritious soup into your diet, you can enjoy the many health benefits of celery and other vegetables. Remember, a balanced diet and regular exercise are key to overall well-being.