Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup is a classic recipe that transforms the underappreciated celeriac into a comforting and creamy soup. Ideal for both casual family meals and elegant dinner parties, this soup combines the nutty and slightly sweet flavors of celeriac with the richness of cream to create a dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated.
This recipe serves 6-8 people and can be prepared in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
What is Mary Berry Celeriac Soup?
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup is a creamy, velvety soup that showcases celeriac, a root vegetable with a subtle, nutty flavor. This dish pairs the celeriac’s distinct taste with the richness of cream and stock, creating a comforting and luxurious soup.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out for its simplicity, elegance, and the delightful way it introduces celeriac to the palate. It’s perfect for those seeking a gourmet experience at home, offering a balance of flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients to produce a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Celeriac Soup
- Celeriac: 1 large celeriac (about 2 pounds or 0.9 kg), peeled and chopped
- Onion: 1 large onion, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Potato: 1 large potato (about 1/2 pound or 225 grams), peeled and chopped
- Chicken or Vegetable Stock: 4 cups (950ml) for a rich base
- Double Cream: 1 cup (240ml) for creaminess
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: For garnish
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Celeriac Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling and chopping your celeriac and potato into roughly equal-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, sautéing until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
To the pot, add the chopped celeriac and potato, stirring to mix them with the onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are soft, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
Step 5: Add Cream and Season
Return the pot to low heat and stir in the double cream. Warm through without allowing the soup to boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or chives. Serve immediately for the best taste experience.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Celeriac Soup?
Pairing the perfect accompaniments with Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup can elevate this comforting dish into a full, satisfying meal.
Here are some delightful options to complement its creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping and sopping up the last drops of soup.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a crisp contrast.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: These are a comforting addition, offering a crispy, cheesy delight.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables, roasted to perfection, provide a hearty side.
- Herb Croutons: Homemade croutons add a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of meats and cheeses for a more upscale accompaniment.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Celeriac Soup
Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Celeriac Soup doesn’t have to be a challenge.
Here are some pro tips to ensure success every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher your celeriac and other vegetables, the better the flavor of your soup.
- Consistent Chopping: Keep your vegetables in uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Low and Slow: Simmer your soup gently to develop the flavors.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
- Blend Thoroughly: For a smooth soup, ensure thorough blending, leaving no chunks behind.
- Cream Substitute: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Variations of Mary Berry Celeriac Soup
Exploring variations of this classic soup can add an exciting twist to your menu.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Spicy Celeriac Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or some freshly diced chili for a warming kick.
- Celeriac and Apple Soup: Introduce chopped apples during cooking for a subtle sweet contrast.
- Roasted Garlic Celeriac Soup: Roast a head of garlic and add it to the soup for a deep, rich flavor.
- Curried Celeriac Soup: Incorporate a tablespoon of curry powder for an aromatic, spicy version.
- Vegan Celeriac Soup: Swap out the cream for coconut milk and use vegetable stock to cater to vegan diets.
How do I Store Mary Berry Celeriac Soup Leftovers?
Proper storage of Mary Berry Celeriac Soup leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this delightful dish for days after it’s made.
Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.
- Cool Before Storing: Let the soup cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the soup into airtight containers to preserve freshness.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store the soup in the refrigerator immediately after it has cooled.
- Label Containers: Mark the containers with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
- Use Within 3-4 Days: For the best quality, consume refrigerated soup within 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing Is an Option: Freeze in suitable portions for up to 3 months for longer storage.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Celeriac Soup Leftovers?
Reheating Celeriac Soup properly can help maintain its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Follow these tips for the best results.
- Stovetop Method: Warm the soup gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave with Care: Reheat in a microwave-safe container, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
- Avoid Boiling: Keep the heat moderate to prevent the soup from separating or losing its creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup has thickened, add a little water or stock to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Sometimes flavors mellow in the fridge. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Nutrition Value List (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
- Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
- Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugar: 5g, Fibers: 3g)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 40mg
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Celeriac Soup Vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup to be vegan by substituting the chicken or vegetable stock with a vegan option and replacing the double cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut milk or almond cream. These swaps will retain the creamy texture while aligning with vegan dietary preferences.
How Can I Thicken Mary Berry Celeriac Soup?
To thicken the soup, you have several options. One approach is to add more cooked, pureed celeriac or potatoes to the soup. Alternatively, you could simmer the soup for a longer period to reduce and thicken it. For a quick fix, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water can be stirred in and cooked until the desired thickness is achieved.
What Are the Best Toppings for Mary Berry Celeriac Soup?
Enhance your serving of Mary Berry Celeriac Soup with a variety of toppings for added texture and flavor. Crispy bacon bits, a dollop of crème fraîche, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a drizzle of truffle oil are excellent choices. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley also add a pop of color and freshness.
Is Celeriac Soup Freezable?
Absolutely, Mary Berry Celeriac Soup freezes very well. Cool the soup completely before transferring it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave a small space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. Properly stored, the soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a touch of simplicity and elegance in your dining. This recipe, with its step-by-step guide, promises a delightful culinary adventure right in your kitchen. Bon appétit!
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Notes
Cooking Method: Simmering Cuisine: British