Austrian Cream Cheese Soup

Austrian Cream Cheese Soup Recipe - Traditional Soup from Austria

Region / culture: Austria | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Austrian Cream Cheese Soup is a luxurious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and the fresh, earthy taste of leeks. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. Its creamy texture and depth of flavor make it a favorite among soup lovers. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and promises to deliver a delicious outcome.

History

The origins of Austrian Cream Cheese Soup can be traced back to the traditional Austrian cuisine, which is known for its rich and hearty dishes. Austria, with its diverse regions, has a long history of culinary excellence, blending influences from various European cuisines. Cream cheese, a versatile ingredient, was embraced by Austrian cooks for its ability to add a luxurious creaminess to soups and sauces. Over time, this recipe has evolved, incorporating local ingredients like leeks to create a soup that is both comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients

6 leeks
0.33 cup butter or margarine
4 celery ribs, chopped
0.33 cup all-purpose flour
3 cans chicken broth (14.5 oz (411 g) each)
3 cups water
1 tsp salt
16 oz (454 g) soft cream cheese
1.5 cups plain yogurt
4 egg yolks
1 tsp freshly ground white pepper
chopped fresh chives (optional)

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a Dutch oven. Add the leeks and celery, and sauté until they become tender.
Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes.
Stir in the broth, 3 cups of water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a microwave-safe bowl of 2 qt (1.89 liters) capacity, microwave the cream cheese and yogurt on high for 15 to 20 seconds, or until warm. Whisk until smooth.
Whisk in the egg yolks, gradually adding 2 cups of the leek mixture.
Stir the cream cheese mixture and pepper into the leek mixture.
Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly heated (do not boil).
If desired, sprinkle with chives before serving.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added texture and flavor. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and yogurt.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Austrian Cream Cheese Soup, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh leeks and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand.

- When melting the cream cheese and yogurt, do so gently to prevent curdling.

- Gradually incorporate the hot leek mixture into the egg yolks to temper them and avoid scrambling.

- Keep the heat low when combining all ingredients to maintain a smooth texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Austrian Cream Cheese Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives for an added touch of color and flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include sautéing the leeks and celery to bring out their flavors, creating a roux with flour for thickness, and tempering the egg yolks to ensure a smooth consistency. Gentle heating is crucial to prevent the soup from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If cream cheese is not available, ricotta or mascarpone can be used as substitutes. Greek yogurt can replace plain yogurt for a tangier flavor. Olive oil or butter can be used instead of margarine for sautéing.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently to maintain its creamy texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a pre-warmed bowl and garnish with a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of paprika, and fresh chives. A side of toasted garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment.

Pairing Recommendations

Austrian Cream Cheese Soup pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine such as Grüner Veltliner or a light-bodied Pinot Noir. The acidity and freshness of the wine complement the richness of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this soup contains approximately 350 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and carbohydrates in the recipe, making it a hearty and filling option for a meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Austrian Cream Cheese Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The main sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the leeks, all-purpose flour, and yogurt. These carbohydrates provide the body with energy and are an essential part of a balanced diet.

Fats

This soup is rich in fats, primarily from the cream cheese, margarine, and egg yolks. A serving contains about 25 grams of fat, which contributes to the soup's creamy texture and satisfying mouthfeel. While fats are an important part of the diet, consuming them in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy balance.

Proteins

Each serving of the soup offers around 10 grams of protein, coming mainly from the cream cheese, yogurt, and egg yolks. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this soup a good option for a nourishing meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Austrian Cream Cheese Soup is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the leeks, calcium from the cream cheese and yogurt, and phosphorus from the egg yolks. These nutrients support various bodily functions, including vision, bone health, and energy metabolism.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as dairy (cream cheese, yogurt, margarine) and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Austrian Cream Cheese Soup is a rich, comforting dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. While it is relatively high in calories and contains common allergens, it can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet with appropriate modifications for those with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Austrian Cream Cheese Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the subtle sweetness of leeks. This recipe is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits, making it a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. With its simple preparation and versatile nature, it's sure to become a favorite for cozy dinners at home.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a chilly winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Helga in Austria. She invited me into her cozy kitchen and served me a steaming bowl of cream cheese soup that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a magical world of rich, creamy goodness. The soup was velvety smooth, with a hint of tanginess from the cream cheese and a subtle kick of paprika. It was pure comfort in a bowl, warming me from the inside out.

I begged Helga for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. Undeterred, I spent the rest of my visit watching her every move in the kitchen, trying to glean as much information as I could about how to recreate that heavenly soup.

When it was time for me to leave, Helga handed me a tattered old recipe card with the instructions written in her elegant script. She winked at me and said, "Good luck, my dear. Maybe one day you'll be able to make it as well as I do."

And so began my quest to master the art of Austrian Cream Cheese Soup. I spent countless hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different combinations of ingredients and techniques. I tried adding more cream cheese, less paprika, a touch of garlic – nothing seemed to quite capture the magic of Helga's soup.

But I was determined to crack the code. I reached out to other friends and family members who had spent time in Austria, hoping to gather more insights into the traditional recipe. Each person had their own variation, their own special twist that they claimed made their soup the best.

I was starting to feel discouraged, wondering if I would ever be able to recreate that perfect bowl of cream cheese soup. But then, on a rainy Sunday afternoon, I had a breakthrough. As I was rummaging through my pantry, I came across a jar of pickled cucumbers that I had brought back from my last trip to Austria.

It was like a light bulb went off in my head. I suddenly remembered Helga mentioning that a splash of pickle juice was the secret ingredient that gave the soup its unique flavor. I quickly pulled out the recipe card she had given me and added a small amount of the pickle juice to the pot.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I anxiously awaited the moment of truth. When I took my first taste, I felt tears welling up in my eyes. It was perfect. The creamy texture, the tangy flavor, the hint of spice – it was all there, just like I remembered from that day in Helga's kitchen.

I couldn't wait to share my success with Helga. I called her up right away and told her the good news. She was thrilled to hear that I had finally cracked the code and made the soup my own.

From that day on, Austrian Cream Cheese Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make it for friends and family, always proudly sharing the story of how I learned the recipe from my dear friend Helga in Austria.

And so, my collection of recipes grew once again, enriched by the memories and stories that came with each dish. I may never be able to replicate Helga's soup exactly, but that's okay. In my heart, it will always be a reminder of the magical journey that led me to discover the joy of cooking and the power of sharing a meal with the ones you love.