This creamy apple and celery soup is a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of fresh vegetables, tart apple, and rich vegetable broth creates a smooth, flavorful soup, while the caramelized walnuts add a delightful crunch. It’s the perfect restaurant-quality dish to enjoy at home!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Carrot: 1, chopped
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
- Leek: 1, sliced
- Onion: 1/2, diced
- Bay leaves: 2
- Parsley: A small bunch
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Salt: To taste
- Water: 1 liter (4 cups) or chicken/meat broth
- Potatoes: 300 g (10.5 oz), diced
- Apple: 1, peeled and diced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
For the Topping:
- Walnuts: 100 g (3.5 oz), chopped
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Salt: To taste
- Paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp
Directions
Prepare the Vegetable Broth:
- In a large pot, combine carrot, celery, leek, 1/2 onion, bay leaves, parsley, thyme, salt, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 40 minutes. Strain the broth and set aside.
Prepare the Soup Base:
3. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and fry for 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped celery stalks and cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the diced apple and cook for 7–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Pour in the prepared vegetable broth, season with salt, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Blend the Soup:
7. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Prepare the Walnut Topping:
8. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped walnuts and brown sugar, stirring to coat.
9. Sprinkle with salt and paprika, and cook for 5 minutes until the walnuts are caramelized.
10. Drizzle with lemon juice and remove from heat.
Serve:
11. Ladle the soup into bowls, top with caramelized walnuts, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic croutons.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of flavors.
- Substitute vegetable broth with chicken or meat broth for a richer taste.
- For an extra creamy texture, add 1/4 cup of cream before blending.
Nutritional Benefits
- Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A.
- Celery: A good source of antioxidants and fiber.
- Walnuts: Provide healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly (vegan if butter is substituted with vegan butter).
- Gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Storage
Advertisement
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2 months (omit the walnut topping before freezing).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A unique flavor profile with sweet and savory elements.
- Perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner.
- Easy to customize with available ingredients.
- Restaurant-quality soup made at home.
Conclusion
This creamy apple and celery soup with caramelized walnut topping is a comforting and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a family meal, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different nut for the topping?
Yes, pecans or almonds are great alternatives to walnuts. - Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, replace butter with vegan butter and ensure the broth is vegetable-based. - Can I use a regular blender instead of an immersion blender?
Yes, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender. - Can I skip the apple?
While the apple adds a unique sweetness, you can replace it with a small pear or more carrots. - How do I make the soup creamier?
Add 1/4 cup of cream or a splash of coconut milk before blending. - Can I use pre-made broth?
Yes, store-bought vegetable or chicken broth works well. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the soup can be made a day in advance. Reheat and add the walnut topping before serving. - What kind of potatoes work best?
Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for a creamy texture. - How do I prevent the soup from being too thick?
Add more broth or water while blending to adjust the consistency. - Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well for larger gatherings.