Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 pears, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped pears and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the pears are soft.
3. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. Heat over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Boil for broth and pears
- Low heat for melting cheese and heating soup
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 420
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 11g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Blue cheese can be used instead of Gorgonzola cheese
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option
Variations:
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra flavor
- Top with croutons or chopped nuts for crunch
- Use apples instead of pears for a different twist
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to blend the soup until it is completely smooth for a creamy texture
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking for a stronger or milder flavor
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of chopped herbs on top
Garnishes:
- Croutons
- Chopped nuts
- Cream
- Chopped herbs
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream to thin it out
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to heat the soup to a safe temperature before serving
Food history:
- Gorgonzola cheese is a type of blue cheese that originated in Italy in the 9th century
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy
- Savory
- Sweet
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a starter or main dish for a cozy fall or winter meal
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Region: Italian