Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons is a quintessentially British dish, blending earthy, creamy celeriac with the savory crunch of crispy pancetta and the delicate texture of poppy seed-crusted croutons. It’s a celebration of the comforting and sophisticated flavors that are both homey and elegant.
Celeriac, also known as celery root, might not be the most glamorous vegetable at first glance, but it has an understated, nutty flavor that becomes smooth and creamy when blended into a soup. The pancetta adds a salty, umami punch, creating a savory contrast to the mildness of the celeriac. The poppy seed croutons, which are slightly crisp and peppery, offer an added crunch and visual appeal, making each spoonful of the soup a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Mary Berry, a culinary legend known for her work on the TV show The Great British Bake Off and her many cookbooks, is celebrated for her ability to turn simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. This soup exemplifies that talent. It’s an accessible recipe that yields a restaurant-quality result, perfect for cozy dinners or as a starter at more formal gatherings. The balance of rich, creamy soup with crispy, salty toppings is the kind of comfort food we crave on a chilly evening.
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup With Crispy Pancetta And Poppy Seed Croutons Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To create Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons, you’ll need the following ingredients. The recipe uses simple pantry staples, but the combination of these ingredients elevates the dish to something truly special.
For The Soup
- 1 large celeriac: This is the star of the show. The root has a rough, knobby exterior, but the flesh inside is white and smooth with a mild celery-like flavor, which intensifies when cooked.
- 1 medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the soup base.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Imparts a fragrant warmth and subtle heat.
- 1 medium potato: This will add creaminess to the soup and help thicken it, giving it the right texture when blended.
- 750 ml (3 cups) of vegetable stock: Provides the necessary liquid and enhances the flavors of the soup.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion, garlic, and celeriac to bring out their natural flavors.
- Salt and pepper: To season the soup to taste, balancing the flavors.
For The Toppings
- 100 g (about 3.5 oz) of pancetta: This adds a crispy, savory crunch. Pancetta, which is Italian cured pork belly, is slightly less salty than bacon and adds a refined richness to the soup.
- 2 slices of white bread: Used to make the croutons. Choose a hearty, rustic bread to get that satisfying crunch.
- 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds: These tiny seeds add a nutty flavor and a lovely texture to the croutons, as well as an extra pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: To crisp up the croutons in the oven.
These ingredients are simple but allow the flavors to shine through beautifully, resulting in a comforting yet sophisticated soup.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, you won’t need any specialized equipment, but a few kitchen essentials will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large saucepan or pot: This is for cooking the celeriac soup. It needs to be large enough to comfortably hold all your ingredients and allow them to simmer.
- Sharp knife: You’ll need this for chopping the celeriac, onion, garlic, and potato.
- Chopping board: A stable surface to safely chop all the vegetables.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the soup and ensuring even cooking without damaging your pot.
- Blender or hand blender: This is necessary for puréeing the soup to a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Baking tray: You’ll use this to toast the croutons in the oven.
- Small frying pan: For crisping the pancetta to perfection.
These tools should be all you need to execute the recipe with ease, ensuring your soup turns out as it should.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup With Crispy Pancetta And Poppy Seed Croutons
Step 1: Prepare The Vegetables
Start by peeling the celeriac with a sharp knife. Slice it into small cubes, making them easier to cook and blend. Peel and chop the onion and garlic, and peel and cube the potato. Set all the vegetables aside in separate piles.
Step 2: Sauté The Vegetables
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking them gently until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the celeriac and potato cubes, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well-coated and starting to soften.
Step 3: Simmer The Soup
Once the vegetables are softened, pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the celeriac and potato are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Blend The Soup
Once the vegetables are soft and fully cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a hand blender (or a regular blender), carefully purée the soup until it is completely smooth. You can add a little extra stock or water if the soup is too thick for your liking. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Set the soup aside and keep it warm.
Step 5: Make The Croutons
While the soup is simmering, prepare the croutons. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut the bread into small cubes and place them on a baking tray. Drizzle the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with poppy seeds, tossing them to ensure they’re evenly coated. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden and crispy.
Step 6: Cook The Pancetta
While the croutons bake, heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is crispy and golden. Remove the pancetta from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain any excess fat.
Step 7: Serve
Once everything is ready, ladle the smooth celeriac soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a handful of crispy pancetta and poppy seed croutons. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips And Tricks
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner soup, adjust the amount of stock or water you add when blending. Adding more liquid will give you a looser consistency, while less liquid keeps the soup thick and hearty.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs pair wonderfully with celeriac.
- Crisp Pancetta in Advance: To save time, you can crisp up the pancetta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well for a day or two and can be added just before serving.
- Bread Alternatives for Croutons: If you prefer a different type of bread, sourdough works wonderfully as a substitute for white bread, adding an extra tang to the croutons.
- Make It Creamy: For an even richer soup, consider stirring in a tablespoon of double cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a velvety texture.
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that offers both comfort and sophistication. The creamy, velvety soup pairs perfectly with the crunchy, salty pancetta and the fragrant poppy seed croutons, creating a well-rounded dish that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something a little more impressive for a dinner party, this soup has you covered. The combination of simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and impressive results makes this recipe one to remember. With a few thoughtful additions like fresh herbs or a touch of cream, you can tailor it to your preferences and elevate it even further.
This dish is a reminder that with a little attention to detail, you can turn humble vegetables into something truly extraordinary. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy this wonderful soup that will undoubtedly warm you from the inside out.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup With Crispy Pancetta And Poppy Seed Croutons
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons is a delightful dish, perfect for cozy evenings or elegant dinner parties. Its earthy flavors from the celeriac are complemented by the salty crunch of the pancetta and the slight nuttiness of the poppy seed croutons. While the original recipe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of creative variations to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or what ingredients you have on hand. Let’s explore some easy twists that you can try:
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian adaptation, swap out the pancetta for a plant-based alternative. You can use crispy fried mushrooms for that satisfying crunch and savory taste, or even roasted chickpeas. These options will still provide a satisfying texture contrast without compromising the flavor profile of the soup.
- Vegan Option: If you’re looking for a completely vegan version, omit the cream and replace it with coconut cream for a creamy consistency. The crispy pancetta can be substituted with crispy roasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This will give you a rich, satisfying soup with an added crunch.
- Spicy Twist: For those who like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes to the soup base. You could even finish the dish with a drizzle of chili oil for an extra layer of flavor. Pairing the spicy soup with a mild cheese or creamy yogurt could help balance the heat while still maintaining the soup’s smooth texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to change up the flavor of the soup. A sprinkle of fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can transform the taste profile, giving the dish a more aromatic quality. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add a few sprigs of tarragon for a slightly aniseed note that pairs beautifully with celeriac.
- Nutty Crunch: Instead of poppy seeds, try using other types of nuts in the croutons. Toasted walnuts or almonds would add a wonderful richness to the dish, and their crunch would provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy soup. You could even grind them into a fine meal and mix them into the soup for added texture.
- Cheese Lovers’ Twist: For a rich, indulgent version, add grated cheese to the soup just before serving. Parmesan, Gruyère, or cheddar would melt beautifully into the soup, making it extra creamy and flavorful. A sprinkle of cheese on top of the croutons would be the perfect finishing touch.
Storing Leftovers
When it comes to storing leftovers of Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons, it’s important to consider both the soup and the croutons separately to ensure they stay fresh.
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Soup Storage
- Refrigerator: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to the container.
- Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from separating.
Tip: If you’re freezing the soup, it’s best to avoid adding the cream or dairy before freezing. Instead, you can add it while reheating, ensuring the soup doesn’t lose its smooth texture during freezing and defrosting.
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Crispy Pancetta:
While crispy pancetta is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, store them in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. They can stay fresh for up to 2 days. To refresh them, you can briefly crisp them up in a hot pan for a minute or two before serving. Alternatively, you could sprinkle them over a salad or pasta for a flavor-packed topping.
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Poppy Seed Croutons:
Croutons are best when freshly baked, as they maintain their crisp texture. However, if you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For optimal crunch, you can re-toast them in a dry pan for a couple of minutes or in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), until they’re crispy again.
Note: It’s best to store the soup, pancetta, and croutons separately to prevent sogginess and maintain the textural contrast when you reheat the soup.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup With Crispy Pancetta And Poppy Seed Croutons?
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons is filling and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate the meal. Here are some fantastic options to serve alongside the soup:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is an excellent complement to the rich, creamy soup. A simple mixed green salad with arugula, spinach, or watercress will provide a peppery balance to the earthiness of the celeriac. A light vinaigrette made with lemon juice and Dijon mustard can add a zesty contrast to the soup’s smooth texture.
- Cheese Board: If you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want something indulgent, serve the soup with a cheese board. A selection of creamy cheeses, such as brie, camembert, or goat cheese, would be a lovely addition. Pairing these cheeses with a few slices of crusty bread would complement the soup’s richness without overwhelming the flavors.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing! The buttery, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich pairs beautifully with the celeriac soup. For a fun twist, use a sharp cheese like Gruyère or cheddar, and consider adding caramelized onions or a little mustard to the sandwich for an added layer of flavor.
- Roast Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or butternut squash would make a wonderful side dish to the soup. Their natural sweetness will contrast with the savory flavors of the pancetta and poppy seed croutons, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Simple yet effective, crusty bread or a baguette is always a great choice. You can toast slices lightly in the oven to serve alongside the soup, or dip pieces directly into the soup to soak up all of the rich flavors.
- Seared Meat: If you’re looking for something heartier, consider serving the soup alongside a seared steak, grilled chicken, or roasted pork belly. The meat’s savory notes will complement the earthy celeriac soup, creating a full-bodied meal that is both satisfying and elegant.
- Wine Pairing: For a drink that pairs well with the soup, opt for a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay. If you prefer red wine, a soft Pinot Noir would work beautifully without overpowering the delicate flavors of the soup.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Celeriac Soup with Crispy Pancetta and Poppy Seed Croutons is an effortlessly elegant dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy and crunchy, earthy and savory. Its versatility allows for numerous variations-whether you’re switching to a vegetarian, vegan, or spicy version, there’s room to tailor the recipe to your personal tastes. The ability to store leftovers without compromising flavor and texture makes this soup not only delicious but practical for meal planning too.
Pairing the soup with refreshing salads, crusty bread, or a warm grilled cheese elevates the meal further, while options like roasted vegetables or a cheese board round out the experience for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Whether you’re preparing this soup for a casual meal or as part of a multi-course dinner, it’s a recipe that promises both comfort and sophistication with every spoonful.
FAQs
What Is The Secret To Making The Celeriac Soup Creamy And Smooth?
The key to a smooth and creamy celeriac soup lies in properly cooking the celeriac to soften it fully before blending. Mary Berry recommends simmering the celeriac in vegetable stock until it’s tender. After blending, strain the soup for an extra-smooth texture. Additionally, using a good-quality cream or milk when finishing the soup will enhance its richness and creaminess.
Can I Substitute Pancetta With Another Ingredient?
Yes, you can substitute pancetta with bacon, prosciutto, or even a vegetarian option like smoked tofu if you prefer. While pancetta provides a delicate, salty crunch, any of these alternatives will still give you a similar depth of flavor and texture. Just be sure to crisp up the substitution in a similar manner to the pancetta for that satisfying crunch.
How Do I Make The Poppy Seed Croutons Crispy And Flavorful?
To achieve perfectly crispy poppy seed croutons, it’s important to toast the bread in a hot oven, usually at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes. Mary Berry’s recipe suggests brushing the bread cubes with olive oil and sprinkling poppy seeds on top before baking. This allows the croutons to develop a golden, crispy texture while the poppy seeds add a delightful crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
