Creamy Comfort: Celery and Stilton Soup Recipe

Celery and Stilton soup might sound like an unusual combination at first, but the earthy, slightly bitter celery beautifully complements the sharp, salty, and creamy Stilton cheese. The result is a surprisingly sophisticated and comforting soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a light lunch. This recipe provides detailed instructions for creating a flavorful and satisfying soup that will impress your taste buds.

Why This Recipe Works

* **Flavor Balance:** The celery provides a fresh, vegetal base that prevents the Stilton from becoming overpowering. The Stilton adds a rich, savory depth that elevates the soup beyond a simple vegetable broth.
* **Texture:** The blending process creates a velvety smooth texture that’s incredibly pleasing. The addition of cream enhances the richness and silkiness.
* **Ease of Preparation:** This soup is relatively quick and easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
* **Versatility:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. Add more or less Stilton depending on your desired level of sharpness. Incorporate other vegetables like potatoes or leeks for added depth and texture.

Ingredients

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
* 1 cup water
* 4 ounces Stilton cheese, crumbled (reserve some for garnish)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (or crème fraîche for a tangier flavor)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Optional garnishes: chopped celery leaves, extra Stilton, croutons

Equipment

* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Immersion blender or regular blender

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften properly will contribute to the overall flavor of the soup.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the soup.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the celery is very tender. The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it in batches to the blender. Be very cautious when blending hot liquids, as they can create pressure and cause the blender lid to explode. Hold the lid down firmly with a towel.

Step 4: Add the Stilton and Cream

1. Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the crumbled Stilton cheese until it is melted and fully incorporated. The heat of the soup will help the cheese melt quickly.
2. Add the heavy cream (or crème fraîche) and stir until well combined. The cream adds richness and a luxurious texture to the soup.

Step 5: Season and Serve

1. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that Stilton is already quite salty, so taste the soup before adding any salt.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped celery leaves, extra crumbled Stilton cheese, or croutons, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

* **Adjust the Stilton:** If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Stilton cheese. You can also substitute with another blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola, although the flavor profile will be slightly different.
* **Add Potatoes:** For a heartier soup, add 1-2 diced potatoes to the pot along with the celery and onion. The potatoes will add body and creaminess to the soup.
* **Incorporate Leeks:** Sauté a chopped leek along with the onion and celery for a more complex flavor.
* **Roast the Celery:** Roasting the celery before adding it to the soup will intensify its flavor and add a subtle sweetness. Toss the chopped celery with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.
* **Make it Vegan:** Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut cream. Ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly. You’ll need to find a vegan blue cheese alternative, though these can be difficult to source and might impact the overall flavor profile.
* **Garnish Ideas:** Beyond celery leaves and Stilton, consider garnishing with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of olive oil, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
* **Make Ahead:** This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. The flavor may even improve slightly after a day or two.
* **Freezing:** While you can freeze this soup, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The cream may separate, resulting in a grainier texture. If freezing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
* **Broth Choice:** The type of broth you use will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Vegetable broth will provide a lighter, more delicate flavor, while chicken broth will add richness and depth. Consider using homemade broth for the best flavor.
* **Celery Leaves:** Don’t discard the celery leaves! They are packed with flavor and can be used to garnish the soup or added to salads and stocks. Celery leaves have a stronger flavor than the stalks, so use them sparingly.

Serving Suggestions

* **Pair with Crusty Bread:** Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
* **Serve as a Starter:** This soup makes an excellent starter for a dinner party.
* **Enjoy as a Light Lunch:** Pair the soup with a salad for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
* **Accompany with a Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** For a comforting and classic combination, serve the soup with a grilled cheese sandwich.
* **Wine Pairing:** A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would pair well with this soup.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on the recipe above)

* Calories: Approximately 250-300
* Fat: 15-20g
* Protein: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.*

Celery: More Than Just a Soup Ingredient

Celery is often overlooked as a simple vegetable, but it offers numerous health benefits and culinary uses beyond soup. It’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Celery is also low in calories and high in fiber, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

Here are a few other ways to incorporate celery into your meals:

* **Snack with Nut Butter:** Celery sticks with peanut butter or almond butter make a healthy and satisfying snack.
* **Add to Salads:** Chop celery and add it to salads for a crunchy texture and fresh flavor.
* **Include in Stir-Fries:** Add sliced celery to stir-fries for a quick and easy vegetable boost.
* **Use in Stuffing:** Celery is a classic ingredient in stuffing recipes.
* **Make Celery Juice:** Celery juice has gained popularity as a health tonic, believed to offer anti-inflammatory benefits.

Stilton Cheese: A British Delicacy

Stilton is a blue cheese produced in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire, England. It has a distinctive flavor that is both sharp and creamy, with a characteristic blue veining. Stilton is protected by European Union law and can only be made in these three counties using specific methods.

There are two types of Stilton cheese:

* **Blue Stilton:** The most common type, with its distinctive blue veins and strong flavor.
* **White Stilton:** A younger, less pungent version without the blue veins. It is often used in desserts and with fruit.

Stilton is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed on its own, crumbled into salads, or used in cooking. It pairs well with fruit, nuts, and sweet wines.

Conclusion

This Celery and Stilton soup recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balanced flavors, creamy texture, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful soup! Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!