Pin It Experience the sophisticated flavors of our Creamy Celery Root Bisque, an elegant and velvety soup that highlights the subtle, earthy essence of celery root. This refined starter is perfect for special occasions, bringing a touch of French-inspired luxury to your table with its smooth texture and aromatic profile.
Pin It By simmering diced celery root and potatoes with leeks and onions, the ingredients soften into a base that blends into a silk-like bisque. The addition of cream and fresh herbs provides a bright, balanced finish that elevates this humble root vegetable into a gourmet masterpiece.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large celery root (about 700 g / 1.5 lb), peeled and diced; 1 medium Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced; 1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, sliced; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced.
- Liquids: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth (gluten-free if needed); 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk; 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or non-dairy cream.
- Fats & Seasoning: 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil; 1 bay leaf; 1/4 tsp ground white pepper; Salt, to taste.
- Garnish: Chopped chives or parsley; Drizzle of cream (optional).
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add leek, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft but not browned, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- Add diced celery root and potato. Sauté for another 3 minutes.
- Step 3
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes or until vegetables are very tender.
- Step 4
- Remove and discard the bay leaf. Using an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender), purée the soup until completely smooth.
- Step 5
- Stir in the milk and cream. Heat gently (do not boil), and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Step 6
- Ladle into warm bowls. Garnish with chopped chives, parsley, and a drizzle of cream if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best results, use a high-quality immersion blender or a countertop blender for an extra-smooth finish. Ensure you discard the bay leaf before blending to maintain the velvety texture. Always check broth and cream labels for potential allergens or gluten if catering to dietary restrictions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan-friendly version, simply substitute the butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and non-dairy cream. If you want to add extra depth to the flavor profile, try adding a splash of dry white wine to the pot immediately after sautéing the vegetables.
Serviervorschläge
This bisque pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping and a crisp, mineral-driven white wine. Serve it warm in shallow bowls with a fresh garnish of chives or parsley to accentuate the aromatics.
Pin It Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or simply seeking a refined comfort meal, this Creamy Celery Root Bisque offers a delicious balance of simplicity and elegance. Enjoy this light yet satisfying soup as the perfect start to any meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What does celery root taste like?
Celery root has a mild, subtle flavor reminiscent of celery and parsley with a slightly sweet undertone. It's less assertive than stalk celery, making it perfect for creamy soups where you want gentle flavor rather than overwhelming intensity.
- → Why add potato to this bisque?
Potato acts as a natural thickener and contributes to the velvety smooth texture. It also helps balance the flavors and adds body without needing additional starch or flour, keeping the bisque gluten-free.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This bisque actually improves in flavor after sitting for a day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash more liquid if needed. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.
- → What's the difference between bisque and soup?
Bisque refers to a smooth, creamy soup traditionally strained for an ultra-silky texture. The term originally applied to shellfish soups, but now describes any smooth, rich, cream-based soup like this elegant celery root preparation.
- → How do I achieve the smoothest texture?
Blend thoroughly with an immersion blender or countertop blender until completely smooth. For restaurant-quality results, pass the puréed soup through a fine-mesh sieve. This extra step removes any remaining fiber for an exceptionally silky finish.
- → What wines pair well with this bisque?
Crisp, mineral-driven white wines complement the creamy texture beautifully. Consider a Sauvignon Blanc, Chablis, or dry Riesling. Their acidity and brightness cut through the richness while enhancing the delicate celery root flavors.