Canadian Cheddar Soup

Canadian Cheddar Soup Recipe | Easy to Make Soup Recipe

Region / culture: Canada | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Canadian Cheddar Soup is a rich and creamy soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. Made with sharp cheddar cheese, vegetables, and a touch of beer, this soup is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

History

Canadian Cheddar Soup is a popular dish in Canada, especially in the colder months. It is believed to have originated in the 1970s at the famous Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada Pavilion at Epcot in Walt Disney World. Since then, it has become a favorite comfort food for many.

Ingredients

2 tbsp (25 ml) of butter
0.25 cup (50 ml) of finely chopped onion
0.25 cup (50 ml) of finely chopped carrot
0.25 cup (50 ml) of finely chopped celery
2 tbsp (25 ml) of flour
0.25 tsp (1 ml) of dry mustard
1 pinch of nutmeg
1 pinch of pepper
3 cups (750 ml) of chicken stock
1.5 cups (375 ml) of light cream
1 (250 ml) of milk or beer
1.5 cups (375 ml) of shredded cheddar cheese
1 dash of worcestershire sauce
salt

How to prepare

In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter and cook the onion, carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes or until tender; do not brown.
Stir in the flour, mustard, nutmeg, and pepper; cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
Stir in the chicken stock and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. If desired, puree the mixture until smooth using a blender or food processor. (Note: using a hand blender is highly recommended!)
Add the cream and milk or beer and bring the mixture almost to a boil.
Add the cheese and heat until it is just melted, stirring constantly.
Finally, add the Worcestershire sauce and a little salt.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some chopped broccoli or cauliflower for added texture and nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Swiss, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly and blend smoothly into the soup.

- Use a hand blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture.

- Be careful not to let the soup boil once the cheese has been added, as it can cause the cheese to become stringy.

Serving Suggestions

Canadian Cheddar Soup is delicious served with a crusty bread or a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir constantly when adding the cheese to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Simmer the soup gently to prevent the cream from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute half-and-half for the light cream for a richer soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Canadian Cheddar Soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Canadian Cheddar Soup with a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Canadian Cheddar Soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a hearty sandwich.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Canadian Cheddar Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Canadian Cheddar Soup contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Canadian Cheddar Soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Canadian Cheddar Soup contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Canadian Cheddar Soup contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Canadian Cheddar Soup is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Canadian Cheddar Soup contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Canadian Cheddar Soup is a rich and creamy soup that is high in fat and calories, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Canadian Cheddar Soup is a rich and creamy soup that is perfect for a comforting meal. With its blend of sharp cheddar cheese, vegetables, and beer, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling from the trees in a flurry of reds and golds, and there was a distinct chill in the air. I had just finished a long day of work at the local farmer's market, where I had been selling my homemade jams and preserves. As I packed up my stall and headed home, I couldn't shake the feeling that something magical was about to happen.

When I arrived at my cozy little cottage, I was greeted by the comforting aroma of a pot of soup simmering on the stove. My dear friend Margaret had dropped by earlier in the day and left me a pot of her famous Canadian Cheddar Soup as a surprise. Margaret was a fantastic cook, and I always looked forward to trying her new creations.

I poured myself a bowl of the steaming soup and settled down at my kitchen table. With the first spoonful, I was transported to a world of creamy, cheesy goodness. The sharp tang of the cheddar blended perfectly with the silky smooth texture of the soup, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

The next day, I marched over to Margaret's house and begged her to teach me the recipe. She laughed and agreed, saying that it was her pleasure to pass on the secret family recipe. We spent the entire afternoon in her cozy kitchen, chopping vegetables, grating cheese, and stirring the pot as the soup bubbled away on the stove.

Margaret's recipe was a masterpiece of simplicity. It called for just a few basic ingredients – butter, onion, celery, carrots, flour, chicken broth, milk, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and of course, the star of the show, sharp Canadian cheddar cheese. The key, she explained, was to simmer the soup slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, velvety texture.

As we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor, I couldn't believe how delicious the soup was. It was like a warm hug in a bowl, comforting and satisfying in every way. Margaret smiled at me and said, "Now you have the power to make this soup whenever you want. Just remember to use good quality cheese and take your time with it."

From that day on, Canadian Cheddar Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potluck dinners, and cozy nights in with a good book. Each time I stirred the pot and watched the cheese melt into the creamy broth, I thought of Margaret and the wonderful day we spent together in her kitchen.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create new variations on the classic soup. Sometimes I would add a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, or a handful of fresh herbs from my garden for a burst of freshness.

But no matter how many times I tweaked the recipe, the essence of Margaret's original creation remained the same. It was a dish that brought people together, warmed their souls, and filled their bellies with love. And for that, I would be forever grateful to my dear friend and her magical Canadian Cheddar Soup.