Creamy Apple-Cheddar Soup Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special equipment needed:
- Immersion blender or blender

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped apples and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and apple cider and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
6. Using an immersion blender or transferring to a blender, puree the soup until smooth.
7. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
8. Add the heavy cream and stir until combined.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 500
Fat: 40g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 800mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
- Sharp cheddar cheese can be substituted with any type of cheese, such as Gouda or Swiss.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Top with crumbled bacon or chopped walnuts for added texture.
- Use pear instead of apple for a different twist on the recipe.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to blend the soup until it is completely smooth for a creamy texture.
- Serve with a crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated for an easy meal.

Storage instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve in a bowl with a drizzle of heavy cream and a sprinkle of chopped chives.

Garnishes:
Chopped chives, crumbled bacon, chopped walnuts, or a dollop of sour cream.

Pairings:
Serve with a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Suggested side dishes:
Crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more broth or apple cider until desired consistency is reached.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
Creamy apple-cheddar soup is a modern twist on traditional apple soup, which has been enjoyed for centuries in Europe.

Flavor profiles:
This soup is sweet and savory, with a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess from the cheddar cheese.

Serving suggestions:
Serve hot as a main dish or as an appetizer.

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Taste: Creamy, Apple, Cheddar, Savory, Tangy