Guinness and Cheese Soup

Guinness and Cheese Soup Recipe from Ireland

Region / culture: Ireland | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Guinness and Cheese Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of Guinness stout with creamy cheese and savory seasonings. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a special meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional beer and cheese soups, which have been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The addition of Guinness stout adds a unique depth of flavor and richness to the soup.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) unsalted butter or margarine
1 cup flour
32 oz (907 g) chicken broth
32 oz (907 g) hot water
16 oz (454 g) heavy cream
1 jar cheez whiz ® (or similar brand)
1 bottle Guinness stout
2 tbsp worcestershire sauce
0.5 tsp garlic powder
fresh chives, snipped

How to prepare

In a saucepan, melt the butter.
Add the flour and stir until slightly browned.
Add the chicken broth and hot water.
Stir constantly.
Add the cream, Cheez Whiz, Worcestershire sauce, Guinness, and garlic powder.
Simmer over medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
Ladle into soup bowls and garnish with chives.
Serve piping hot.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, for a unique twist.
Add diced vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for added texture and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir constantly when adding the flour to prevent lumps from forming.

- Simmer the soup over medium-low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Guinness and Cheese Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling.

- Stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of paprika for a decorative touch. - Serve the soup in bread bowls for a fun and creative presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Guinness and Cheese Soup with a side of Irish soda bread for a traditional Irish meal.

- Pair with a glass of Guinness stout or a crisp cider for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the soup in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Guinness and Cheese Soup contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Guinness and Cheese Soup contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Guinness and Cheese Soup contains approximately 30 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Guinness and Cheese Soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Guinness and Cheese Soup is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fats and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Guinness and Cheese Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Guinness and Cheese Soup. It was many years ago, during a trip to Ireland with my dear friend Margaret. We were exploring the countryside, taking in the stunning views and indulging in traditional Irish cuisine. One evening, we stumbled upon a charming little pub in the village of Galway. As soon as we walked in, the warm aroma of hearty soups and stews filled the air.

We settled into a cozy corner table and perused the menu, my eyes immediately drawn to the Guinness and Cheese Soup. I had never heard of such a combination before, but the description sounded intriguing. I decided to give it a try, and Margaret followed suit, always eager to try new things.

When the soup arrived at our table, I was taken aback by its rich, creamy texture and deep, savory aroma. The first spoonful melted in my mouth, the flavors of the Guinness and sharp cheddar cheese blending together in perfect harmony. I savored each bite, savoring the warmth and comfort it brought me on that cool Irish evening.

After finishing our bowls, Margaret and I couldn't stop raving about the soup. We asked our server about the recipe, hoping to recreate it at home. To our delight, she offered to introduce us to the pub's chef, a warm and friendly man named Seamus. He graciously invited us into the kitchen, where he shared the secrets of his beloved Guinness and Cheese Soup.

Seamus explained that the key to a delicious soup lies in the quality of the ingredients. He started by sautéing onions and garlic in butter until they were soft and fragrant. Then, he added flour to create a roux, which would thicken the soup and give it a velvety consistency.

Next, Seamus poured in a generous amount of Guinness, allowing it to simmer and infuse the soup with its distinctive malty flavor. He then added rich beef broth, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of melted cheese and stout.

Once the soup had simmered to perfection, Seamus ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of fresh chives. Margaret and I eagerly took our first taste, savoring the familiar flavors of our Irish adventure. We thanked Seamus profusely for his generosity and vowed to make this soup for our families back home.

When we returned from our trip, I wasted no time in recreating Seamus's Guinness and Cheese Soup in my own kitchen. I followed his instructions to the letter, savoring each step of the process as memories of Ireland flooded back to me. The soup turned out just as delicious as I remembered, warming me from the inside out with its rich, comforting flavors.

Since then, I have made Guinness and Cheese Soup countless times for my family and friends. Each time, it is met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always share Seamus's secrets with pride, passing on the tradition of this beloved Irish dish to the next generation.

As I sit here at my kitchen table, penning this story, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the memories and connections that a simple bowl of soup can bring. It's amazing how a recipe can transcend time and space, connecting us to places and people we may never have met otherwise.

So here's to Seamus, the kind-hearted chef who shared his Guinness and Cheese Soup recipe with two curious travelers on a chilly Irish evening. And here's to Margaret, my dear friend who shares my love for adventure and good food. And most of all, here's to the power of a shared meal, bringing us together and filling our hearts with warmth and joy. Sláinte!