Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Add the milk, heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
6. Add the smoked cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
8. Stir in the chopped parsley.
9. Serve hot.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer over medium heat.
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 500
Fat: 42g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 1300mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Smoked cheddar cheese can be substituted with regular cheddar cheese or any other type of smoked cheese.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or water.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for a heartier soup.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a whisk to prevent lumps when adding the chicken broth.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in a bowl with a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Chopped parsley or croutons.
Pairings:
Crusty bread or a salad.
Suggested side dishes:
Grilled cheese sandwich or a side of roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
Cheese soup has been a popular dish in the United States since the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
Savory, smoky, and creamy.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a main dish or as an appetizer.
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