Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped walnuts and thyme to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 450
- Fat: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 15g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or water with bouillon cubes.
- Instead of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or milk.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, instead of walnuts.
- Add a splash of sherry or white wine for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the soup will enhance their flavor.
- Make sure to puree the soup until it is completely smooth for the best texture.
Storage instructions:
- Store any 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 the soup in individual bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts and a drizzle of cream.
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts
- Crispy bacon
- Cream
- Fresh thyme leaves
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken or fish
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or cream to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Walnut soup is a traditional dish in many European countries, including France and Spain.
Flavor profiles:
- Rich and creamy with a nutty flavor and salty bacon undertones.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a starter or as a main course with a side dish.
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