This creamy celery leek soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days. With the mild flavors of leeks and the freshness of celery, it’s a delightful bowl of goodness!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just blend the cooked veggies with some broth, and you’re all set for a cozy meal. Top it with croutons and enjoy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leeks: The star of this soup! Look for bright green tops and crisp white parts. If you can’t find leeks, green onions or shallots can be a good substitute, although they bring a different flavor.
Celery: Fresh celery gives the soup a lovely, bright flavor. If celery is unavailable, you might try fennel for a slight anise taste or even spinach for a different twist.
Potatoes: They help create a creamy texture. If you want to skip them, add more heavy cream or coconut milk for richness, or try cauliflower for a low-carb option!
Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or even oat milk, although the texture may vary slightly.
How Do I Get My Soup Smooth and Creamy?
To get that wonderfully smooth texture, blending is key! If using an immersion blender, just blend right in the pot until it’s silky. If using a traditional blender, be cautious; blend in batches and allow steam to escape to avoid splatter.
- Let the soup cool slightly before transferring to the blender.
- Fill the blender halfway at most, and be sure to secure the lid tightly.
For the best results, you can blend until super smooth or leave a few bits for a chunkier texture, depending on your preference.
Easy Creamy Celery Leek Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 3 leeks (white and light green parts only), cleaned and sliced
- 3 cups celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup water (optional, to adjust thickness)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for more creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a perfect quick meal. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the sliced leeks and chopped celery. Cook gently, stirring occasionally until the veggies are soft but haven’t turned brown. This should take about 8-10 minutes. You want them tender and ready to soak up all that flavor!
2. Add Broth and Simmer:
If you’re using potatoes for extra creaminess, add the diced potatoes next. Then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Raise the heat until it starts to boil, then lower it and let everything simmer until all the veggies are tender, which should take about 20 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
3. Blend the Soup:
Once the veggies are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Grab your immersion blender and puree the soup until it’s luxuriously smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Remember to leave the lid slightly ajar to let steam escape—safety first!
4. Final Touches:
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk if you’re using it. If your soup seems a bit thick, adjust the consistency by adding water a little at a time until you reach your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure it’s just right for you!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy celery leek soup is ready to be served! Pour it into bowls, garnish with fresh thyme, and drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for that extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your comforting, velvety bowl of goodness!
FAQ About Easy Creamy Celery Leek Soup
Can I Use a Different Type of Broth?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for added flavor. Just keep in mind that the type of broth will slightly affect the final taste of the soup.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a light salad. For a hearty meal, try serving it with a side of roasted vegetables!
