I’ve always believed that every dish tells a story, and when it comes to Chunky Celery Soup, it’s a tale of simplicity and comfort. But let me just say this: while I appreciate a good bowl of soup on its own, I find that nothing complements it quite like a hearty slice of homemade bread.
A generous bite of crusty sourdough, which perfectly soaks up the velvety bits of celery, crisp carrots, and earthy potatoes peeking through the broth. It’s pure magic.
When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I knew without a doubt that it would become a staple. It’s easy to whip up, healthy, and packed with flavors.
But let’s dig a bit deeper into what makes this soup tick—as a food enthusiast, I love to explore the ingredients, the process, and a dash of creative flair!
What is Chunky Celery Soup?
Chunky Celery Soup isn’t just a blend of vegetables heated up in a pot. It’s a vibrant blend of textures, colors, and flavors.
Imagine the sweet crunch of celery mingling with the earthiness of potatoes and the bite of garlic; it’s an orchestra of tastes that dance joyfully on your palate. This soup encapsulates the warmth of home, where every spoonful reminds us that comfort can be found in simple ingredients.
The Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need for this delightful soup:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion, peeled and diced
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
10 medium stalks of celery, thoroughly washed and chopped
3 to 4 small to medium-sized carrots, sliced
1 large russet potato, peeled and cubed
5 cups mild-flavored vegetable stock
2 cups cooked wild rice, brown rice, barley, or wheat berries
1/3 cup celery leaf pesto
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
How to Make Chunky Celery Soup?
Making Chunky Celery Soup is straightforward. The process involves prepping your ingredients and then cooking them to perfection. It’s a no-fuss recipe that allows the natural flavors to shine through. The steps below will guide you along the way.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook until it becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Once the onion is softened, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You want to release that fragrant aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to play with colors and textures. Toss in the chopped celery, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to soak up the flavors from the onion and garlic. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The kitchen will soon smell divine!
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Once your veggies are nicely softened, it’s time for the vegetable stock to join the party. Pour in 5 cups of stock and bring everything to a gentle boil. As it heats, the scents will swirl around, teasing your taste buds.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Stir in the cooked wild rice (or your choice of grains). This not only thickens the soup but also adds an interesting texture. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is the moment where all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches
After simmering, add the celery leaf pesto, freshly ground black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir to mix everything evenly. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed—maybe a pinch of salt or more pepper to suit your palate.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Chunky Celery Soup is now ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have any, and don’t forget that fresh bread on the side. This is where the magic truly happens!
Notes
Here are five helpful tips to enhance your soup-making experience:
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, vibrant produce for maximum flavor.
Texture Preference: If you like a creamier soup, blend half of it after cooking for a silkier finish.
Seasoning: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
Meal Prep: This soup freezes well; prepare ahead for those busy weeknights.
Customization: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have available.
Storage Tips
Leftover Chunky Celery Soup can be a fridge staple. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to three months.
Keep in mind that the texture might change upon thawing; however, the flavors will remain intact and delightful.
Serving Suggestions
Here are five ways to serve your Chunky Celery Soup:
With Crusty Sourdough: A crunchy, warm slice of sourdough bread perfectly complements the soup. Slather a bit of butter for an indulgent treat.
With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill to brighten the flavors. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
With a Side Salad: Pair the soup with a refreshing side salad. Choose seasonal greens dressed with vinaigrette to create a well-rounded meal.
As a Main Dish: Load up on a heavier grain, like quinoa or farro, to make it a filling entrée. This way, it can stand alone as a full meal.
With Cheesy Croutons: Top your soup with cheesy croutons. Just toss some bread with cheese, bake until melting, and watch as they float atop the soup.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chunky Celery Soup?
Sometimes ingredient flexibility is key to cooking. Here are five substitutes:
Onion: Red or sweet onions can be swapped for yellow onions for a milder flavor.
Potato: Sweet potatoes can provide a unique sweetness and beautiful color.
Vegetable Stock: Homemade stock or broth is a great alternative if you’re looking for deeper flavors.
Rice: Quinoa or lentils can replace rice for a gluten-free and protein-packed option.
Celery Leaf Pesto: Basil or parsley pesto can be used to switch things up if you don’t have celery leaves on hand.
Conclusion
Chunky Celery Soup is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to comfort, creativity, and community. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing a bowl with friends and family, this dish never fails to evoke warmth and connection.
With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and room for customization, you’ll find that it earns a cherished spot in your cooking repertoire.
So, next time you’re in need of a comforting meal, don’t hesitate to reach for that celery stalk. It might just become your new favorite dish. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Chunky Celery Soup Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
I’ve always believed that every dish tells a story, and when it comes to Chunky Celery Soup, it’s a tale of simplicity and comfort. But let me just say this: while I appreciate a good bowl of soup on its own, I find that nothing complements it quite like a hearty slice of homemade bread.
A generous bite of crusty sourdough, which perfectly soaks up the velvety bits of celery, crisp carrots, and earthy potatoes peeking through the broth. It’s pure magic.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
-
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook until it becomes translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Once the onion is softened, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You want to release that fragrant aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
-
Now, it’s time to play with colors and textures. Toss in the chopped celery, sliced carrots, and cubed potatoes. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to soak up the flavors from the onion and garlic. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The kitchen will soon smell divine!
Step 3: Pour in the Broth
-
Once your veggies are nicely softened, it’s time for the vegetable stock to join the party. Pour in 5 cups of stock and bring everything to a gentle boil. As it heats, the scents will swirl around, teasing your taste buds.
Step 4: Add the Rice
-
Stir in the cooked wild rice (or your choice of grains). This not only thickens the soup but also adds an interesting texture. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is the moment where all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches
-
After simmering, add the celery leaf pesto, freshly ground black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir to mix everything evenly. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed—maybe a pinch of salt or more pepper to suit your palate.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
-
Your Chunky Celery Soup is now ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you have any, and don’t forget that fresh bread on the side. This is where the magic truly happens!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 139kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.3g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 2mg1%
- Sodium 96mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 24g8%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 4g8%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, vibrant produce for maximum flavor.
- Texture Preference: If you like a creamier soup, blend half of it after cooking for a silkier finish.
- Seasoning: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
- Meal Prep: This soup freezes well; prepare ahead for those busy weeknights.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have available.
