Celery Root and Apple Soup

Name: Celery Root and Apple Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium celery root, peeled and diced; 2 medium apples, peeled and diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I’ve always found comfort in a warm, hearty soup, and this Celery Root and Apple Soup has become one of my favorites. Combining the earthiness of celery root with the sweetness of apples creates a unique flavor balance that’s both satisfying and refreshing. I love how simple it is to prepare, letting the ingredients shine without much fuss. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, this soup is a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T03:07:27.712Z

Making this soup for the first time was an eye-opening experience in the kitchen. The interplay between the nutty taste of celery root and the tartness of apples creates a flavor that I didn’t expect. I added a splash of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors, and it worked wonders. My guests were pleasantly surprised by the delicious harmony of ingredients.

I learned that blending the soup until completely smooth is key to achieving that velvety texture. Using an immersion blender made it so much easier, and I recommend it for a quicker cleanup. Honestly, I could eat this soup every day!

Why You'll Love This Soup
Unique blend of earthy and sweet flavors
Creamy consistency that's comforting and satisfying
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and nourishing, packed with nutrients

Flavor Profile and Texture

The combination of celery root and apples in this soup offers a complex flavor profile. Celery root, known for its earthy taste, pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart notes of apples. This contrast not only creates an exciting taste experience but also enhances the soup's overall appeal. When aiming for the best flavor, choose a variety of apples that hold their shape during cooking, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, as they add a pleasant sweetness without becoming mushy.

In terms of texture, the blend of these ingredients results in a creamy and rich consistency that is incredibly satisfying. The smoothness of the pureed soup, achieved by blending the ingredients, makes each spoonful comforting. For those who prefer a chunkier texture, consider reserving a portion of the diced apples and celery root before blending to add back in before serving. This gives an appealing contrast to the creamy base.

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

Selecting a fresh celery root is crucial for this soup. Look for a bulb that feels heavy for its size and has no blemishes or soft spots. If you can't find celery root, a combination of celery stalks and potato can be a suitable substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Be mindful of adjusting the salt content, as celery stalks can be naturally saltier than celery root.

The soup’s lemon juice not only brightens the flavors but also adds a layer of freshness. If you need a substitute, try apple cider vinegar for a similar effect. For a creamier finish, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cream after blending. This small tweak can enhance the soup’s richness while keeping its nourishing qualities intact.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Celery Root and Apple Soup is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers; it can be frozen for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture.

For serving, this soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it a complete meal. To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of roasted nuts can also add an enticing texture and flavor contrast, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 medium celery root, peeled and diced
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then, add the diced celery root and apples, stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes.

Add Broth and Cook

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the celery root and apples are soft.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.

Season and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or thyme during cooking. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Technique Tips

When sautéing the onions and garlic, ensure they become translucent rather than browned, which can lend a bitter taste to the soup. A medium heat is ideal for this step, allowing the aromatics to develop their flavor without risking caramelization. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

After adding the celery root and apples, give them enough time to soften before proceeding to the next step. This typically takes about 5 minutes; you want to see the apples starting to break down but still retaining some structure. A visual cue of softening but not losing shape is perfect.

Flavor Enhancements

To deepen the soup’s flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary during the simmering stage. A small bunch tied with kitchen twine can be added, then removed before blending. This infusion of herbaceous notes can elevate the overall taste and complexity, turning a simple soup into a gourmet experience.

Spices can also play a role; a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can enhance the sweetness of the apples while complementing the earthiness of the celery root. These spices should be added sparingly at first, as they can quickly overpower the delicate flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth or water if you don't have vegetable broth, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

→ Is there a way to make this soup creamy without dairy?

Yes, blending it thoroughly creates a creamy texture, and you can add coconut cream for a richer taste if desired.