Homemade Campbell Cream of Celery Soup Recipe: A Healthier, Flavor-Packed Alternative

Category: Soup

Introduction

Campbell's Cream of Celery Soup has been a pantry staple for decades, beloved for its comforting flavor and versatility in recipes. First introduced in the 1940s, it quickly became a favorite in American kitchens, not only as a standalone soup but also as a key ingredient in countless casseroles and dishes. Its creamy texture and subtle celery flavor make it a comforting choice for many. However, with growing awareness of health and nutrition, many of us are seeking homemade alternatives that are healthier, customizable, and just as delicious.

Making your own Cream of Celery Soup at home allows you to control the ingredients, reducing sodium and avoiding preservatives found in the store-bought version. Plus, it's cost-effective and can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences. In this recipe, we’ll recreate the iconic Campbell’s flavor using fresh, wholesome ingredients, ensuring a result that’s both nutritious and mouthwateringly close to the original.

Why Make It at Home?

• Better Nutrition: Reduce sodium and eliminate preservatives while adding more vegetables for increased fiber and nutrients.
• Customization: Adjust the seasoning, thickness, and ingredients to your liking.
• Cost-Effective: Using fresh celery and basic pantry staples can be more economical than buying multiple cans.
• Flavor Enhancement: Fresh celery and aromatic spices create a more vibrant and authentic taste compared to the canned version.

Personal Anecdote

I grew up in a household where Campbell’s Cream of Celery Soup was a regular fixture, often used in my mother’s famous chicken and rice casserole. While I loved the convenience, I always felt something was missing in terms of freshness and depth. When I decided to create my own version, I was thrilled to discover that using fresh celery, garlic, and a touch of cream could elevate this classic to a whole new level. Now, my homemade version is a staple in my kitchen, offering the same comfort with a brighter, more robust flavor.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:15 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes
• **Total Time:40 minutes
• **Yield:4 servings (about 4 cups or 960 ml)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) salt
• 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika

Wet Ingredients:

• 4 cups (960ml) vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half (or dairy-free alternative)
• 4 cups (400g) chopped fresh celery (about 4 medium stalks)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60g) finely chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

• Sauté Celery and Garlic: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and minced garlic. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the celery is tender and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

• Add Spices: Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavor.

• Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the celery mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a light roux to thicken the soup.

• Add Broth: Gradually pour in the broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.

• Blend for Creaminess: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender, blend in batches, and return it to the saucepan.

• Stir in Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let the soup warm through for another 2-3 minutes until heated evenly. Do not boil.

• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning if needed.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Cool the soup completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Pour into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, label, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
• Pantry: Not recommended for shelf storage due to the dairy content.

Variations

• Low-Sodium Version: Use homemade broth with minimal salt and reduce added salt.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk (e.g., almond or soy milk) instead of cream.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.

Special Equipment

• Saucepan: Stainless steel or enameled cast iron for even heat distribution.
• Immersion Blender: For blending soup directly in the pot.
• Blender: For smooth texture if an immersion blender isn’t available.
• Whisk: For mixing the roux and broth.

Pro Tips

• Fresh Celery Matters: Use the freshest celery possible for the best flavor. Older celery can be fibrous and less flavorful.
• Roasted Celery Option: For a deeper flavor, roast the celery in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes before sautéing.
• Texture Control: Adjust the amount of cream to achieve your desired consistency. More cream makes it richer; less keeps it lighter.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use frozen celery? Yes, though fresh celery offers better texture and flavor. Thaw and pat dry before using.
• What if I don’t have heavy cream? Substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk for a lighter version.
• How do I prevent lumps? Whisk continuously when adding broth and cook the roux adequately.
• Can I make it ahead? Yes, it refrigerates well for up to 5 days and freezes for 3 months.
• Is it gluten-free? Yes, as long as the broth and flour used are gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Soup: Enjoy as a comforting starter or light lunch.
• Casserole Base: Use in place of canned soup for recipes like chicken and rice casseroles.
• Dip: Chill and serve as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
• Sauce: Toss with cooked pasta, chicken, or fish for a creamy sauce.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Campbell’s Cream of Celery Soup captures the essence of the original while offering a healthier, fresher alternative. With customizable ingredients and minimal effort, it’s a recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. Share your creations and enjoy the warmth of homemade comfort food!