Celery soup might not be the first thing you think of when you’re looking for something delicious, but it’s actually quite delicious. And it gets even better when you prepare it in Mary Berry’s style. The soup is made with common pantry ingredients: celery, onions, a bit of butter, and a few other things you probably already have. It’s the perfect soup for warming up or when you’re after something light but still satisfying.
It’s really easy to make, too. Just chop up the ingredients, cook them until they’re soft, and blend it all up. It’s also pretty healthy, thanks to all the good stuff in celery. Let’s learn how to make Mary Berry celery soup.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cups chopped celery
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- 1 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Read: Mary Berry Parsnip Soup Recipe
Time needed: 45 minutes
Steps to Make Mary Berry Celery Soup
- Prep Your Vegetables
Start by preparing your veggies. Chop the onion, celery, and mince the garlic.
- Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent. Add the chopped celery to the pot, cooking for a few minutes until it starts to soften.
- Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable stock and water. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the celery is very tender.
- Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can blend the soup in batches using a regular blender.
- Serve
If using, stir in the heavy cream after blending for a richer soup. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Variations and Substitutions for Mary Berry Celery Soup
Gluten-Free Option
To make this soup gluten-free, simply ensure that your vegetable stock is labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients naturally do not contain gluten.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Variations
For a dairy-free or vegan version of this soup, omit the heavy cream or substitute it with a plant-based cream or coconut milk. This swap keeps the soup creamy without using dairy.
Flavor Variations
- Herbs: Add fresh herbs like dill or tarragon towards the end of cooking for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, include a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Citrus Zest: Stir in some lemon zest before serving for a bright, citrusy note.
Low-Calorie Version
Skip the heavy cream altogether for a lighter, brothier soup that’s lower in calories but still full of flavor.
Creaminess without Dairy
If you’re avoiding dairy but still want the creaminess, blend in some cooked white beans or cauliflower with the soup. They thicken the soup nicely without adding dairy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Smooth and Comforting. The blend of celery with a hint of butter and cream (optional) gives this soup a smooth texture that’s truly comforting on any day.
- Simple Yet Flavorful. Using everyday ingredients, this soup achieves a taste that’s both simple and rich, proving that you don’t need complicated recipes for great flavor.
- Easy to Make. With straightforward steps, this soup is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both new and experienced cooks.
- Customizable. It offers flexibility with variations and substitutions, letting you adjust the recipe to suit your taste or what you have in the pantry.
Pairing Suggestions
Crusty Bread
Enjoy a bowl of Mary Berry’s Celery Soup with a side of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup and adds a satisfying crunch.
Green Salad
Pair the soup with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the smooth texture of the soup, making for a balanced meal.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich
For a heartier option, serve the celery soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The melted cheese and toasted bread offer a comforting contrast to the light soup.
White Wine
A glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with the soup. The wine’s acidity and freshness enhance the subtle flavors of the celery.
Roasted Vegetables
Serve the soup alongside roasted vegetables like carrots or parsnips. Their natural sweetness and slight caramelization bring out the savory notes of the soup.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Celery Soup recipe turns a simple vegetable into a standout dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, it creates a flavor that’s subtle yet satisfying, perfect for a light lunch or a starter for dinner. This soup fits any occasion, effortlessly moving from everyday meals to more formal gatherings.