Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated Brethan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the flour to the pot and stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
4. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Add the milk and grated Brethan cheese to the pot, and stir until the cheese is melted.
7. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender to puree until smooth.
8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking the onion and garlic, and low heat for simmering the soup.
Serving size:
This recipe makes 4-6 servings.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Total fat: 15g
Saturated fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brethan cheese can be substituted with any other type of hard cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for a gluten-free version of the soup.
- Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted with water and bouillon cubes.
Variations:
- Add chopped cooked bacon or ham to the soup for extra flavor and protein.
- Substitute the thyme with other herbs such as rosemary or oregano.
- Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or potatoes to the soup for extra nutrition and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a high-quality cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful when blending hot soup, as it can splatter and cause burns.
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze the soup, let it cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Alternatively, microwave the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a drizzle of olive oil or cream on top.
- Garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.
Garnishes:
- Croutons
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Grated cheese
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Crispy bacon or pancetta
Pairings:
- Crusty bread or rolls
- Salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed vegetables
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator or freezer promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Brethan cheese is a type of hard cheese made from cow's milk in Ireland.
- Soup has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Cheesy
- Savory
- Herby
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a starter or main course for lunch or dinner.
- Pair it with your favorite side dishes and beverages for a complete meal.
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Region: Irish