Celeriac and Camembert Soup with cranberry swirl

Indulge in the comforting embrace of this Celeriac and Camembert Soup with a delightful cranberry swirl. The earthy notes of celeriac, the creaminess of Camembert cheese, and the sweet tang of cranberry sauce come together in this winter warmer, creating a symphony of flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your palate.

SERVES 4

PREP TIME: 10 MIN

COOK TIME: 25 MIN

FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS (BEFORE CREAM IS ADDED)

INGREDIENTS:

• 2–3 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1⁄2 small celeriac, about 8oz (225g) prepared weight, coarsely diced
• 2 cups (450ml) chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 bouquet garni
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups (450ml) milk
• 4oz (115g) ripe Camembert, diced
• 4 tbsp heavy cream
• 4 tsp cranberry sauce
• 4 tsp orange or cranberry juice
• 4 tsp sunflower oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently, stirring, for about 2 minutes until it’s softened but not browned. Now, introduce the coarsely diced celeriac into the mix. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, add the bouquet garni, season with a pinch of salt, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for approximately 15 minutes or until the celeriac turns tender. Don’t forget to remove and discard the bouquet garni once the soup is ready.
2. Puree and Blend: Transfer the cooked mixture to a blender or food processor. As you blend, gradually add the milk and diced Camembert cheese. Once the soup is smooth and creamy, return it to the rinsed-out pan. Stir in the heavy cream, and gently reheat the soup, taking care not to let it boil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
3. Create the Cranberry Swirl: While the soup is warming, take the cranberry sauce and combine it with the orange or cranberry juice and sunflower oil. Whisk this mixture until it’s thoroughly blended.
4. Serve with Style: Ladle the luscious Celeriac and Camembert Soup into warm, shallow soup bowls. Now, for the finishing touch, whisk the cranberry mixture again, and using a teaspoon, swirl a bit of it in the center of each bowl. Quickly draw a toothpick from the center to the edge all around, creating a beautiful pinwheel-shaped design.

As you savor each spoonful of this Celeriac and Camembert Soup with its artistic cranberry swirl, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that harmoniously blend earthy, creamy, and tangy notes. This hearty soup is not just a winter warmer; it’s a culinary masterpiece that showcases the elegance of simple ingredients transformed into a rich and comforting dish.

The creamy Camembert cheese melds perfectly with the nutty celeriac, while the cranberry swirl adds a burst of sweet and tangy delight. It’s a culinary creation that speaks of comfort, creativity, and the joy of homemade goodness.

So, indulge in this delicious soup, relishing each bite as you embrace the warmth it brings to your heart and home. Share this delightful experience with loved ones, and let it become a cherished addition to your seasonal menu.