Beer Cheese Soup is a rich and creamy dish with a delightful combination of flavors from cheese and beer. It’s perfect for chilly days or as a hearty appetizer. Here’s a simple recipe to make Beer Cheese Soup:
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup beer (a lager or pale ale works well)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or chives (for garnish)
- Pretzel bread or croutons (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, cooking for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Liquid:
- Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Then add the beer, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika (if using). Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is smooth.
- Season:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions or chives.
- Serve with pretzel bread or croutons for dipping.
Tips:
- Beer choice: Choose a beer that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will come through in the soup. Lagers, pale ales, or even stout can work well.
- Cheese variations: You can mix different types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sausage, or sautéed mushrooms.
This Beer Cheese Soup is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for any gathering or cozy night in. Let me know if you’d like to adjust anything in the recipe!