This Celery and Potato Soup with Crispy Bread Crusts is a comforting bowl that combines the soothing flavors of celery and potatoes with the crunch of toasted bread crusts, making it a perfect meal for any cold day. The soup’s creamy texture and rich, earthy flavors are balanced beautifully by the rustic, homemade feel of the crispy bread topping.
Ideal for those seeking both nourishment and comfort in their meals, this soup serves as a reminder of the simple pleasures of home cooking. It’s straightforward to prepare yet offers a sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to all ages. Whether served as a starter at a dinner party or a main dish on a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 300g celery, chopped
- Olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 320g potatoes, diced
- 35g parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 500ml vegetable broth
- Whole wheat bread crusts, cut into smaller pieces
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped celery and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced potatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes.
- In another pan, melt salted butter and fry the bread crusts until crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
- After the soup has cooked, transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy bread crusts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Kcal: 175 | Servings: 4
Health Benefits
Celery and potatoes are both nutritious ingredients that bring their health benefits to this soup. Celery is low in calories but high in fiber and essential vitamins such as Vitamin K and potassium, which are vital for maintaining bone health and blood pressure levels. Potatoes provide vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, and when combined with celery, contribute to a hearty and nutritious dish.
Culinary Techniques and Tips
- Enhancing Flavors: Sautéing the garlic and celery before adding the potatoes helps to release their flavors, which infuse the soup with a deeper, more aromatic taste.
- Achieving the Perfect Texture: For a smoother soup, ensure that the potatoes are cooked until they are completely tender before blending. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend the soup briefly or mash it manually.
- Variations on Toppings: While crispy bread crusts provide a delightful texture, you can also explore other toppings such as crumbled bacon, roasted seeds, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and richness.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is versatile enough to serve as a starter for a formal dinner or as a main course for a casual lunch. Pair it with a crisp, green salad and a slice of hearty whole grain bread for a balanced meal. It’s also ideal for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for a few days and tastes even better as the flavors develop.
Make It Your Own
The recipe is easily adaptable to accommodate dietary preferences or to use what you have on hand:
- Vegan Version: Replace the butter with olive oil or vegan butter and ensure the bread is vegan to maintain the dish’s plant-based quality.
- Adding Proteins: For a non-vegetarian twist, add chunks of cooked chicken or sausage during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in some spinach, kale, or other leafy greens for an extra nutritional boost just before blending the soup.
Why They’re a Must-Try
This Celery and Potato Soup is not just about comfort; it’s about enjoying simple ingredients in a wholesome way. Its easy preparation and satisfying taste make it a perfect dish for both new cooks and experienced chefs alike. With its creamy texture and crispy addition, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.