This Purifying Celery & Herb Cream Soup is a velvety, green-infused delight crafted for those seeking gentle digestive support, reduced inflammation, and alkalizing benefits. Celery is rich in antioxidants like apigenin and luteolin, with natural electrolytes that hydrate the body, support kidney function, and gently reduce fluid retention. Combined with anti-inflammatory leeks, soothing potato, and herbal accents like thyme and parsley, this soup becomes a full-body tonic disguised as comfort food.
It’s light enough for hot climates like Punjab, yet warming in the evening hours—especially useful for those experiencing bloating, water retention, or skin issues linked to lymphatic sluggishness. It’s ideal for older adults, post-illness recovery, or anyone on a plant-focused healing journey.
🌿 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
- 10–12 fresh celery stalks (washed and chopped)
- 1 medium leek (white part only), sliced thinly
- 1 small potato (peeled and diced)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee
- 4 cups water or vegetable broth
- ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves
- ½ tsp dried thyme or a sprig of fresh thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper (for bioavailability and mild heat)
- ¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
- Optional: ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk for creaminess
- Optional garnish: Celery leaves, lemon zest, toasted pumpkin seeds
🧑🍳 Instructions:
🔸 Step 1: Prep the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil or ghee in a deep pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced leek and sauté until softened and slightly golden—about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant (1 minute).
🧠 Tip: Leeks are gentler than onions for sensitive stomachs and complement celery’s earthy flavor beautifully.
🔸 Step 2: Build the Veggie Base
- Add chopped celery and diced potato to the pot. Stir well so the vegetables are coated with oil.
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to release juices and enhance aroma.
🔸 Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in water or broth, cover loosely, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce to low heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until celery and potato are fully tender.
🔸 Step 4: Blend to Velvet
- Remove the pot from heat. Add parsley.
- Using an immersion blender, puree until smooth and creamy.
- If using a regular blender, do so in batches carefully, and return to pot.
- Stir in almond or coconut milk for a silkier texture. Reheat gently if needed—do not boil.
✨ Note: Coconut milk adds richness and balances celery’s slight bitterness; almond milk keeps it light and mineral-rich.
🔸 Step 5: Serve & Garnish
- Ladle into bowls. Top with celery leaves, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for texture.
- Serve warm with whole grain toast, millet crackers, or a spoonful of probiotic yogurt on the side.
🌟 Wellness Benefits:
| 🌿 Ingredient | 🌼 Benefit |
|---|---|
| Celery | Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, hydrates cells |
| Leek | Gentle detoxifier, skin-friendly sulfur compounds |
| Parsley | Kidney support, rich in vitamin C |
| Potato | Creamy texture, adds magnesium & potassium |
| Thyme | Respiratory and gut anti-microbial |
| Black Pepper | Improves nutrient absorption |
👨👩👧👦 Variations for Family or Conditions:
- For sensitive digestion or IBS: Use sweet potato instead of regular potato and skip leeks.
- For children or picky eaters: Blend in a small carrot or ¼ cup peas for a hint of sweetness and vibrant green color.
- For stronger detox action: Add 1 tsp celery seed powder or fresh cilantro right before blending.
- For bone and joint health: Stir in a spoonful of tahini or blend with hemp seeds for calcium boost.
🕰️ Storage & Use:
- Keeps well refrigerated for 2–3 days. Reheat gently; avoid boiling to preserve nutrients.
- Pairs well with a glass of fennel tea or a lemon-mint digestive infusion.