Celery soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be made easily in a slow cooker. This soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, and it’s also a great way to use up any leftover celery you may have in your fridge. In this article, we’ll show you how to make celery soup in a slow cooker, including the ingredients you’ll need, the steps to follow, and some tips for customizing the recipe to your taste.
Benefits of Celery Soup
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the benefits of celery soup. Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. It’s also a good source of fiber, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and promote digestive health. When you make celery soup, you can also add other ingredients that are good for you, such as garlic, onions, and herbs.
Nutritional Benefits of Celery
Celery is a nutrient-dense food, meaning that it is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. One large stalk of celery contains:
- Only 6 calories
- 1.5 grams of fiber
- 10% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K
- 5% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C
- 5% of the daily recommended intake of potassium
Ingredients Needed
To make celery soup in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2-3 stalks of celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Choosing the Right Celery
When choosing celery for your soup, look for stalks that are firm and crisp. Avoid celery that is limp or has brown spots, as it may be past its prime. You can also use celery leaves in your soup, as they have a similar flavor to the stalks.
Instructions
To make celery soup in a slow cooker, follow these steps:
Step 1: Chop the Celery and Onion
Chop the celery and onion into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop the celery leaves if you’re using them.
Step 2: Sauté the Celery and Onion
Heat the butter or olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and onion and sauté until they’re tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Garlic and Thyme
Add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the pan and sauté for another minute.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Celery Mixture to the Slow Cooker
Add the sautéed celery and onion mixture, chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Cook the Soup
Cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 6: Purée the Soup
Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until it’s smooth. You can also transfer the soup to a blender and blend it in batches, then return it to the slow cooker.
Step 7: Add the Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half (Optional)
If you’re using heavy cream or half-and-half, stir it in just before serving. This will add a rich and creamy texture to the soup.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your celery soup:
- Use different herbs: Instead of thyme, you can use other herbs like parsley, rosemary, or bay leaves.
- Add some heat: If you like spicy food, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup.
- Use different broths: You can use chicken, vegetable, or even beef broth to change the flavor of the soup.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add brightness and balance out the flavors in the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making celery soup:
- Overcooking the celery: Celery can become mushy and unappetizing if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook it until it’s tender but still crisp.
- Not using enough broth: If you don’t use enough broth, the soup can become too thick and sticky. Make sure to use at least 4 cups of broth.
- Not seasoning the soup: Celery soup can be bland if it’s not seasoned properly. Make sure to add enough salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
Conclusion
Celery soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be made easily in a slow cooker. With its low calorie count and high vitamin content, it’s a great way to stay healthy and warm during the cold winter months. By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can make a delicious and comforting bowl of celery soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
What are the main ingredients in celery soup?
The main ingredients in celery soup include celery, onions, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, and sometimes potatoes or other root vegetables for added thickness and flavor. You can also customize the recipe to suit your taste by adding other ingredients such as diced ham, carrots, or herbs and spices.
These ingredients work well together to create a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for any time of the year. The celery provides a fresh and crunchy texture, while the onions and garlic add a depth of flavor. The broth helps to bring all the ingredients together and adds moisture to the soup.
How do I prepare the ingredients for celery soup?
To prepare the ingredients for celery soup, start by washing and chopping the celery, onions, and garlic. You can chop the celery into bite-sized pieces or slice it thinly, depending on your preference. The onions and garlic should be chopped finely to release their flavors during cooking.
Next, sauté the chopped onions and garlic in a pan until they are softened and fragrant. This step helps to bring out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup. You can then add the chopped celery to the pan and sauté for a few more minutes until it starts to soften.
Can I make celery soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make celery soup in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is an ideal way to cook celery soup because it allows the ingredients to simmer together slowly and blend their flavors. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, including the sautéed onions and garlic, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Using a slow cooker to make celery soup is also convenient because it allows you to cook the soup while you are busy with other tasks. Simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious and nutritious meal.
How do I season celery soup?
Celery soup can be seasoned in a variety of ways, depending on your personal taste preferences. Some common seasonings for celery soup include salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or parsley. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a bit of acidity.
If you prefer a creamier soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking time. This helps to enrich the flavors and add a velvety texture to the soup. Alternatively, you can add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to add a rich and savory flavor.
Can I customize celery soup to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, you can customize celery soup to suit your dietary needs. For example, if you are vegetarian or vegan, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any animal products such as cream or cheese. If you are gluten-free, be sure to use gluten-free broth and check the ingredients of any store-bought spices or seasonings.
You can also customize the recipe to suit your personal taste preferences. For example, if you prefer a spicy soup, you can add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder soup, you can omit the garlic or reduce the amount of onions.
How do I serve celery soup?
Celery soup can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences. Some common ways to serve celery soup include serving it hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese. You can also serve it chilled, which makes it a refreshing and light meal for warm weather.
Celery soup can also be served as a starter or side dish, or as a main course with some crusty bread or crackers. You can also add some protein such as cooked chicken, bacon, or tofu to make it more substantial.
Can I freeze celery soup?
Yes, you can freeze celery soup. In fact, freezing is a great way to preserve the soup and enjoy it at a later time. To freeze celery soup, simply let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.
When you are ready to eat the soup, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also freeze individual portions of the soup, which makes it easy to grab a quick and nutritious meal on the go.