Wine Soup
Cozy Up with a Bowl of Creamy Cheese and Wine Soup
Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening? This Cheese and Wine Soup recipe takes comfort to a whole new level! It’s rich, creamy, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget complicated recipes – this one comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.
This isn’t your average cheese soup. The addition of dry white wine (like Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc) elevates the flavor profile, adding a subtle complexity that complements the sharpness of the cheddar. The creamy texture is achieved without relying on heavy cream alone – a clever combination of egg yolk and a cornstarch slurry creates a luxuriously smooth base.
What makes this soup special?
- Flavorful Base: The combination of leek, celery, and onion creates a fragrant and savory foundation.
- Wine Infusion: The dry white wine adds a sophisticated touch and enhances the cheese flavor.
- Silky Smooth Texture: The egg yolk and cornstarch create a velvety smooth consistency without being overly heavy.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for the Perfect Soup:
- Cheese Choice: While sharp cheddar is recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Wine Selection: A dry white wine is key. Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc are excellent choices, but you can also use a dry Riesling.
- Strain Thoroughly: Don’t skip the straining step! This ensures a perfectly smooth and creamy soup.
- Low and Slow: Keep the heat low when adding the egg yolk mixture to prevent curdling.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? While best served immediately, you can make the soup base (up to the point of adding the wine) a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Add the remaining ingredients just before serving.
- Can I use a different type of wine? A dry white wine is crucial. Avoid sweet wines, as they will throw off the balance of flavors.
- Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian? Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Can I freeze this soup? Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
- What can I serve with this soup? Crusty bread for dipping is a must! A simple green salad also makes a lovely accompaniment.
So, gather your ingredients, warm up your kitchen, and prepare to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort with this delightful Cheese and Wine Soup!
Cheese and Wine Soup
Ingredients
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 each leek, chopped (white part only)
- 1 each celery stalk, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon cold water
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, packed
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 each egg yolk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc)
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, chopped leek, celery and onion in a saucepan.
- Bring to a light boil, reduce heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain. Discard veggies.
- Return broth to saucepan. Heat over med/low heat.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Stir cornstarch paste into soup. Stir or whisk until soup is smooth and thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese. Stir until completely smooth.
- Stir in salt, pepper and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, combine egg yolk & heavy cream. Whisk with fork.
- Add in (approx) 1/2 cup of the hot soup. Stir until well combined.
- Add mixture into soup. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes over low heat.
- Remove from heat. Stir in 1/4 cup white wine.
- Serve immediately.
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