Celery and Apple Soup

Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the celery and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add apples and potatoes
   Add the chopped apples and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine with the vegetables and cook for 3 minutes to soften slightly.
3. Simmer the soup
   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables and apples are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Season and blend
   Add the thyme leaves and nutmeg. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until completely smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender.
5. Finish the soup
   Return the soup to low heat if needed. Stir in the heavy cream and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into warmed bowls. Garnish with a swirl of crème fraîche or sour cream if desired, and sprinkle with reserved celery leaves. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.