Creamy Celeriac Soup with Bacon

Experience the comforting and sophisticated flavors of this Creamy Celeriac Soup with Crispy Bacon. This velvety, delicately flavored dish is a classic European staple, featuring the subtle, nutty profile of celeriac and the rich texture of heavy cream, all perfectly balanced by the salty crunch of golden bacon crumbles.

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Celeriac is a versatile root vegetable that transforms into a creamy masterpiece when simmered with potatoes and aromatics. Whether you are looking for a warming lunch or an elegant starter for a multi-course dinner, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that highlights the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 large celeriac (about 700 g), peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 medium potato, peeled and diced; 1 clove garlic, minced
• Liquids: 1 L (4 cups) chicken or vegetable stock; 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) heavy cream
• Seasonings: 2 tbsp unsalted butter; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
• Garnish: 4 slices streaky bacon; Chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes.

Step 2

Add the celeriac and potato. Stir to coat with the butter and cook for 3 minutes.

Step 3

Pour in the stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the vegetables are very tender.

Step 4

Meanwhile, place the bacon slices in a cold, dry skillet. Cook over medium heat until crispy, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels and crumble or leave whole.

Step 5

Remove the soup from heat. Purée with an immersion blender (or carefully in batches in a blender) until smooth.

Step 6

Stir in the cream and a pinch of nutmeg, season with salt and pepper. Gently reheat if needed, but do not boil.

Step 7

Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of chives or parsley, if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, make sure the vegetables are simmered until completely tender before blending. If you don't have an immersion blender, a standard blender works well, but be sure to blend in small batches to avoid pressure buildup from the heat.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock. If you are looking for an extra touch of luxury, finish the soup with a light drizzle of truffle oil just before serving.

Serviervorschläge

This soup is best served hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping. For a complete dining experience, pair it with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.

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With its delicate balance of creaminess and crunch, this Creamy Celeriac Soup with Crispy Bacon is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich nutritional benefits of celeriac in this satisfying dish that provides 340 calories and 8g of protein per serving.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The soup will still be rich and flavorful from the cream and celeriac.

→ What does celeriac taste like?

Celeriac has a delicate, slightly nutty flavor with subtle celery notes. When cooked and puréed, it becomes creamy and mild, making it perfect for smooth soups.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cream for up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat gently, then stir in the cream before serving. Add fresh bacon as garnish.

→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative. The soup will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

→ How do I know when the celeriac is tender enough?

The celeriac should pierce easily with a fork after 25-30 minutes of simmering. If it breaks apart with minimal pressure, it's ready to purée into a smooth, velvety soup.

→ What wine pairs well with this soup?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the delicate celeriac flavor beautifully. The wine's crisp acidity balances the richness of the cream.