Pin It Experience the sophisticated charm of this French-inspired Celery Root Bisque. This elegant, velvety soup showcases the delicate and nutty flavor of celery root, transformed into a smooth masterpiece that is perfect for special occasions or refined gatherings. By combining simple aromatics with the earthy depth of celeriac, you create a starter that is both comforting and incredibly luxurious.
Pin It The secret to this soup's depth lies in the gentle sautéing of leeks, onions, and garlic in a mixture of butter and olive oil. This aromatics base provides a sweet foundation that allows the celery root and Yukon Gold potatoes to shine once they are simmered to tender perfection in a high-quality vegetable stock.
Ingredients
- 2 large celery roots (about 900 g), peeled and diced
- 1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable stock
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (or unsweetened non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives or microgreens for garnish
- Drizzle of extra cream or truffle oil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add leek, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Step 2
- Add celery root and potato. Stir to coat with the aromatics and fat. Cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Step 3
- Pour in vegetable stock and add bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are very tender.
- Step 4
- Remove the bay leaf. Add milk and nutmeg.
- Step 5
- Purée the soup using an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender in batches) until completely smooth.
- Step 6
- Stir in heavy cream. Reheat gently (do not boil). Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
- Step 7
- Ladle into warmed bowls. Garnish with chives or microgreens and an optional drizzle of cream or truffle oil.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure a perfectly smooth bisque, make sure the celery root and potato pieces are diced uniformly so they cook at the same rate. When puréing, if you find the consistency too thick, you can add a splash more vegetable stock until it reaches your desired silkiness. Always reheat gently after adding the cream to avoid breaking the emulsion.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan-friendly version, simply substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with full-fat coconut milk or a rich, homemade cashew cream. You can also replace the butter with additional olive oil or a vegan butter alternative to maintain the soup's creamy profile while keeping it entirely plant-based.
Serviervorschläge
This bisque pairs beautifully with a side of crusty artisan bread or herbed croutons for added texture. To complete the experience, serve it alongside a glass of crisp white wine, such as a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay, which complements the earthiness of the celery root.
Pin It Whether you are hosting a formal dinner or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meal, this Celery Root Bisque offers a touch of French elegance in every spoonful. Its balanced seasoning and rich texture make it a timeless choice for any soup lover.
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes celery root bisque different from regular cream soups?
Celery root bisque has a uniquely delicate, slightly sweet flavor with subtle herbal notes. The vegetable's natural starchiness creates an exceptionally smooth texture without needing excessive thickening agents, making it lighter yet still luxuriously creamy.
- → Can I make this bisque ahead of time?
Absolutely. This bisque actually develops more flavor when made ahead. Prepare it completely, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash more cream or milk if it thickens too much during storage.
- → What's the purpose of adding potato to this soup?
The Yukon Gold potato acts as a natural thickener and enhances the velvety texture. Its mild flavor doesn't compete with celery root, but its starch content helps create that signature bisque consistency while adding body to the purée.
- → Why use white pepper instead of black pepper?
White pepper provides the desired heat without visible specks that would interrupt the bisque's pristine, creamy appearance. It also has a slightly milder, more earthy flavor profile that complements rather than overpowers the delicate celery root.
- → What garnishes work best with celery root bisque?
Fresh chives add mild onion flavor and vibrant color contrast. Microgreens provide delicate texture and visual appeal. For extra luxury, a drizzle of truffle oil or additional cream creates beautiful marble patterns while enhancing the elegant presentation.
- → How do I achieve the smoothest texture?
Blend thoroughly with an immersion blender until no texture remains. For ultra-smooth results, pass the puréed soup through a fine-mesh sieve before adding cream. This removes any remaining fibers, creating that restaurant-quality silky consistency.