Celery cream soup with caramelized apples

Creamy celery soup with caramelized apples

When it comes to soups, nothing compares to a creamy soup that blends subtle flavors and velvety textures. This recipe for creamy celery soup with caramelized apples is a perfect choice for those chilly autumn or winter days when we seek comfort in a bowl. The combination of the savory taste of celery with the sweetness of caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon transforms this soup into an unforgettable culinary experience.

The history of this recipe is linked to the tradition of combining vegetables with fruits, creating surprisingly balanced dishes that delight the senses. This soup is inspired by the style of Alfons Schubeck, a chef renowned for his ability to combine simple ingredients in a sophisticated yet accessible way.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 600-800 g celery root
- 200 g liquid cream
- 1 l vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons butter
- 1 apple (preferably a sweet-sour variety like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- salt, pepper, chili (to taste)
- 2-3 walnuts (optional, for garnish)
- cinnamon powder (optional, for flavor)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the celery. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin and slice the root into thin pieces. This technique not only speeds up cooking but also makes the soup easier to blend.

2. Boiling the celery: In a large pot, add the celery slices and cover them with a liter of vegetable broth or water. Using pre-made vegetable broth will add extra flavor. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the celery becomes soft.

3. Blending: Once the celery is cooked, set aside some of the broth. Use an immersion blender to blend the celery until you achieve a creamy consistency. You can adjust the density of the soup by adding reserved broth or water, depending on your preferences.

4. Adding additional ingredients: While the blender works its magic, add a knob of cold butter, salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili for a touch of warmth. Additionally, add the liquid cream to give the soup a rich and velvety texture. Blend again to integrate all the ingredients.

5. Caramelizing the apples: In a separate pan, melt two tablespoons of butter and add two teaspoons of sugar. When the sugar starts to melt and forms a syrup, add the cored and sliced apple. Cook them over medium heat until they become golden and slightly soft. These caramelized apples will add a delicious contrast between the sweet and savory flavors of the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup: After the apples are caramelized, sprinkle them with a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor. Add them to the blended soup and stir gently to distribute the flavors.

7. Serving: Pour the creamy soup into bowls or deep plates. Garnish with some chopped walnuts for an extra crunch and a splash of color.

Serving suggestions and variations:
- This soup is delicious served alongside a slice of toasted buttered bread.
- You can replace the walnuts with roasted pumpkin seeds for a slightly different taste.
- Add some croutons to enhance the texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Celery soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Celery is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while apples provide fiber and essential vitamins. This soup is a healthy choice, low in calories, with approximately 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of cream used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of vegetables instead of celery?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots or pumpkin, but the taste and texture will vary.

2. How can I make the soup vegan?
You can replace the cream with a plant-based alternative and the butter with olive oil.

3. Is it possible to prepare the soup in advance?
Yes, you can make the soup a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving and add fresh caramelized apples.

This creamy celery soup with caramelized apples is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its enticing flavors!

 Ingredients: 600-800 g of celery root, 200 g of liquid cream, 1 l of vegetable broth or water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of butter, one apple, salt, pepper, chili, 2-3 walnuts, cinnamon powder.

 Tags:  cream soup