Celery soup may not be the first dish that comes to mind when you think of comfort food, but trust me, when prepared the right way, it can be a warm, hearty, and incredibly satisfying dish. And who better to guide us on how to elevate celery’s humble flavor than the iconic Jamie Oliver? Known for his ability to take simple, everyday ingredients and transform them into vibrant, delicious meals, Jamie’s Celery Soup recipe is no exception. It’s packed with fresh, clean flavors, a touch of creaminess, and a comforting depth that’ll have you reaching for seconds.
Whether you’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into your diet or simply want a quick and nutritious meal, this celery soup checks all the boxes. So, let’s dive into what makes this soup so special, from the ingredients to the cooking process-and of course, a few expert tips to take it to the next level!
Jamie Oliver Celery Soup Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup is a simple, yet flavorful recipe that puts celery in the spotlight. The soup is not only light and refreshing but also incredibly creamy and satisfying, thanks to the blend of vegetables and a rich, velvety texture. It’s easy to make, and it uses ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick, healthy meal, this soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s great as a starter, a light lunch, or a simple dinner when paired with some warm, crusty bread.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start, let’s make sure you have everything you need on hand. Here’s a list of the ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup, which serves about 4 people:
- Celery (about 8-10 stalks): The main star of this soup! You’ll want fresh, crisp celery for that vibrant flavor and crunch.
- Onion (1 medium): Adds a sweet and savory base to the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Garlic enhances the depth of flavor without overpowering the celery.
- Potato (1 large): Helps thicken the soup and adds creaminess when blended.
- Vegetable Stock (1 liter): Use a good-quality vegetable stock for the best flavor. It forms the soup’s base.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the onions, garlic, and celery, giving the soup a nice, rich flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (a small bunch): Adds a fresh, herbaceous kick for garnish.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Season the soup to your liking.
- Lemon Juice (optional, for serving): A squeeze of lemon at the end adds a zesty brightness that balances the flavors.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it a perfect go-to dish for busy days.
- Prep the Veggies: Start by washing the celery thoroughly. Trim off the ends and slice it into small pieces. Peel and chop the onion, and peel and dice the potato. Mince the garlic as well.
- Cook the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they soften and become translucent. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Add the Celery and Potato: Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the chopped celery and diced potato to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Stock: Pour in the vegetable stock, making sure all the veggies are covered. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook gently for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the celery is soft.
- Blend the Soup: Once everything is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender, but make sure to let it cool slightly first.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you want a bit of extra brightness, squeeze in some fresh lemon juice. Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.
Ingredient Insights
It’s always helpful to understand the role each ingredient plays in the dish, right? Let’s break it down:
- Celery: The star of the show. Celery is surprisingly versatile in soups. When cooked, it softens and releases a mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances perfectly with the savory elements. It’s also loaded with water, which helps give the soup a light, refreshing base.
- Onion and Garlic: These two aromatics are key in building the flavor profile of any soup. Onions provide sweetness and depth, while garlic adds a savory kick that enhances the overall taste without overpowering the delicate flavor of the celery.
- Potatoes: These starches do more than just bulk up the soup. When blended, they create a creamy, velvety texture that makes the soup feel indulgent without needing cream.
- Vegetable Stock: The foundation of the soup’s flavor, vegetable stock brings all the ingredients together. Using a rich, homemade stock (if possible) or a high-quality store-bought version will make a huge difference in taste.
- Olive Oil: The fat in olive oil helps sauté the veggies, bringing out their natural sweetness and flavor. Plus, it contributes a light, fruity note that adds richness to the soup.
Expert Tips
- Sauté the Celery Longer: If you want a more intense celery flavor, don’t rush through the sautéing process. Let the celery cook down for a bit longer than the recipe suggests to bring out its natural sweetness and enhance its depth.
- Use Fresh Vegetable Stock: If you have time to make your own vegetable stock, do it! Homemade stock will elevate the flavor of your soup and give it a much richer base.
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a thicker, creamier texture, feel free to blend it a bit longer or add an extra potato. For a thinner soup, just add more vegetable stock or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Make It Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, and it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
Recipe Variations
As with any recipe, the beauty of this celery soup lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add a Protein: Want to turn this into a more filling meal? Add some cooked chicken or even beans to make the soup heartier. Shredded rotisserie chicken or cannellini beans work really well.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Fresh thyme or rosemary can complement the celery flavor beautifully. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cumin.
- Creamy Celery Soup: If you’re craving a more indulgent version, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the soup for extra richness. This will give it a luxurious texture.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of grated parmesan on top can add a salty, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the fresh taste of the celery.
- Roast the Celery: For a deeper, caramelized flavor, try roasting the celery before adding it to the pot. Toss the celery in olive oil and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes before incorporating it into the soup.
Final Words
Celery soup, especially when made with Jamie Oliver’s recipe, is a wonderful example of how the simplest ingredients can come together to create a dish that is much more than the sum of its parts. It’s wholesome, nourishing, and absolutely delicious. The creamy texture combined with the fresh flavor of celery, plus the depth of the vegetable stock, makes it a soup that’s perfect for any season.
Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this recipe is straightforward enough to make on a weeknight but flavorful enough to impress your family or guests.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Recipe?
The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s celery soup include celery, onion, garlic, potato, vegetable stock, olive oil, and seasoning like salt and pepper. Optional ingredients might include fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for added flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup?
The total time to prepare and cook Jamie Oliver’s celery soup is approximately 40-45 minutes. This includes prep time (about 10 minutes) and cooking time (30-35 minutes).
Can I Use Other Vegetables In Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can modify the recipe by adding other vegetables like leeks, carrots, or parsnips. These can complement the celery and add a different depth of flavor, but they may slightly alter the taste and texture of the soup.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Recipe Vegan?
Yes, the basic version of Jamie Oliver’s celery soup is vegan as it uses vegetable stock and olive oil. To make sure it’s fully vegan, ensure you use plant-based substitutes for any dairy products, if added.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can add a splash of plant-based cream or dairy cream towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, blending the soup until smooth can also provide a creamy texture.
Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s celery soup can be frozen. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely and transfer it into an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to stir well to restore the smooth texture.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup?
Jamie Oliver’s celery soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a slice of toasted sourdough. You can also serve it with a side of mixed greens or a light salad to complement the flavors.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Without Potatoes?
Yes, you can omit the potatoes if you’re looking for a lighter soup or prefer a lower-carb version. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding more stock or using a little bit of cauliflower for a similar texture.
How Can I Adjust The Seasoning In Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Recipe?
You can adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs. Fresh thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor, and a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking can brighten up the soup.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Celery Soup Recipe Gluten-free?
Yes, Jamie Oliver’s celery soup is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients. However, always check the labels on your vegetable stock or any other pre-made ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.