Kamil Perry
Beer cheese soup is a rich, creamy, and delicious comfort food that is surprisingly easy to make. The soup combines two classic favourites, beer and cheese, with other ingredients like butter, flour, bacon, vegetables, seasonings, and broth. While the recipe calls for sharp cheddar cheese, the amount of cheese used can vary based on personal preference, with some recipes calling for up to three cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. The beer and cheese flavours blend beautifully, creating a cozy and satisfying dish that's perfect for chilly winter days.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cheese | Sharp cheddar |
| Amount of cheese | 2 cups |
| Amount of cheese (in ounces) | 15 ounces |
| Number of servings | 6 |
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What You'll Learn
Beer and cheese measurements
Beer and cheese soup is a rich, creamy, and delicious comfort food. The measurements of beer and cheese used in the soup can vary depending on the desired taste and consistency, but here are some general guidelines and tips for measuring these key ingredients.
Cheese Measurements
The amount of cheese used in beer cheese soup can range from 15 ounces to 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. It is important to use freshly shredded cheese as it melts better and adds more flavour to the soup. You can also use a combination of cheeses, such as Cracker Barrel Sharp Yellow Cheese, Gouda cheese, and even a little Cabot Hot Habanero Cheese for a kick.
Beer Measurements
The amount of beer used in the soup can vary depending on the desired taste and thickness of the soup. Generally, a 12-ounce can or bottle of beer is a common measurement, but some recipes call for up to 17 ounces of beer. It is recommended to use a low-hop or lower-hop beer to avoid bitterness, and a beer that you enjoy drinking on its own. Pilsners tend to work well, but it's best to avoid pale ales and IPAs as they can be too bitter.
Adding the Ingredients
When making beer cheese soup, it is important to add the cheese and beer in small amounts, stirring constantly. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and that the soup combines smoothly. It is also recommended to add the beer before the chicken broth to reduce the initial alcohol harshness. Additionally, make sure the soup base is not too hot when adding the cheese to prevent the dairy from separating and creating a grainy consistency.
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Soup base ingredients
To make beer cheese soup, you'll need a variety of soup base ingredients to complement the cheese and beer. The base of the soup is key to its flavour and texture, so it's important to choose ingredients that work well together. Here are some common soup base ingredients used in beer cheese soup:
Butter and Flour
Butter and flour are often used to make a roux, which forms the base of the soup. The roux adds thickness and creaminess to the soup. It's important to cook the flour before adding any liquids to get rid of any starchy flavour. The roux should be cooked according to your preference, as simmering it for longer will result in a thicker soup.
Onions
Onions are a key ingredient in beer cheese soup, adding depth of flavour. Yellow onions are commonly used, and they are usually chopped finely and caramelized to bring out their sweetness. You can also puree the onions with the rest of the base ingredients to create a smooth soup with no chunks.
Seasonings
Various seasonings can be added to enhance the flavour of the soup. Common choices include garlic, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes, dry or spicy brown mustard, smoked paprika, and fresh or dried thyme. These seasonings add a savoury kick to the soup.
Broth
Chicken broth or vegetable stock is used as a base liquid for the soup. It adds savouriness and depth of flavour. Some recipes call for additional water to be added along with the broth.
Milk and Cream
Milk and cream are added to the soup base to provide creaminess and richness. It's important to use room-temperature or slightly warmed milk to ensure it combines well with the other ingredients.
When making beer cheese soup, you can adjust the quantities and types of base ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Experimenting with different combinations will help you find your ideal flavour profile.
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Broth and dairy
For the broth, chicken broth is commonly used in beer cheese soup recipes. It provides a savoury base that complements the other ingredients well. However, some recipes call for vegetable broth instead, which can add a lighter, more neutral flavour to the soup. Using a combination of both chicken and vegetable broths can also be an option to achieve a well-rounded flavour.
When it comes to dairy, cheese is the star ingredient in beer cheese soup. Sharp cheddar cheese is often the cheese of choice due to its intense flavour and smooth melting capabilities. The sharpness of the cheddar can help balance out the other flavours in the soup, especially if a lighter beer is used. It is recommended to shred the cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, as this ensures better melting and a smoother texture.
In addition to cheese, other dairy products such as milk, cream, and half-and-half are often used in beer cheese soup. Milk adds creaminess and richness, while cream can enhance the soup's indulgent texture and mouthfeel. Half-and-half, a combination of milk and cream, can be used to achieve a similar effect. Adjusting the amount of dairy added can also help control the thickness of the soup to personal preference.
The process of adding the broth and dairy to the soup is important. Typically, the broth is added after the beer to reduce the initial alcohol harshness. The dairy is usually added towards the end, with the heat reduced to low or medium-low, to prevent the dairy from curdling or scorching. Stirring constantly while adding the dairy helps create a smooth, creamy texture.
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Seasonings and spices
Firstly, salt and pepper are essential seasonings that can be added to taste. They provide a savoury flavour profile and help bring out the other ingredients' tastes. Additionally, a bay leaf can be added to the soup while it simmers, imparting a subtle herbal aroma and depth of flavour.
Another popular seasoning is dry or prepared mustard, which pairs well with the cheese and beer. A tablespoon of spicy brown mustard can add extra flavour to the soup. Cayenne pepper, in the form of flakes or powder, is also a great addition, providing a kick of heat and spice. Smoked paprika, with its deep, smoky flavour, can further enhance the savoury notes in the soup.
Fresh or dried herbs like thyme can be used to infuse an earthy, slightly minty aroma. For a subtle kick, red pepper flakes can be incorporated, adding a mild spiciness that complements the other seasonings. If you want to add a hint of sweetness to balance the savoury flavours, a small amount of honey can be stirred into the soup.
Lastly, hot sauce is an excellent way to introduce additional spice and a tangy flavour. Worcestershire sauce is another condiment that can be added to enhance the savoury characteristics of the soup. Remember, when adding seasonings and spices, it is essential to taste the soup frequently to ensure the desired flavour profile is achieved.
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Toppings and sides
Beer cheese soup is a creamy, rich, and indulgent dish that is perfect for cold winter evenings. The soup itself is a meal, but there are toppings and sides that can enhance the experience.
The soup is often garnished with bacon bits, and the bacon is also used to add a deep, meaty flavor to the soup. The bacon is cooked first, and the drippings are reserved to cook the onions, which adds a slightly sweet flavor to the soup. The bacon can be crumbled over the top of the soup, or larger pieces can be reserved and served on the side, to be added as desired.
Popcorn is another topping that adds a fun, tasty crunch to the soup. The soup itself is rich, so a light, airy topping like popcorn adds a nice contrast in texture.
Crusty bread is a popular side dish for beer cheese soup, and it is often served with a bread that has a French or airy, no-knead style. The soup can be dipped into the bread, or the bread can be used to scoop up the soup.
Beer cheese soup is a very rich dish, so a light salad could be served on the side to balance out the meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the soup.
Finally, while not a traditional side, a different type of cheese could be served with the soup. A strong, sharp cheddar could be grated over the top, or a milder cheese like feta could be crumbled over for a tangy, salty contrast.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of cheddar cheese used in beer cheese soup varies depending on the recipe and desired level of cheesiness. Some recipes call for 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, while others use up to 3 cups of shredded or grated sharp cheddar cheese. You can also add more cheese to taste if you prefer a cheesier soup.
In addition to cheddar cheese, beer cheese soup typically includes butter, flour, onions, garlic, beer, broth, milk or cream, and seasonings. Some recipes also include bacon, Worcestershire sauce, and vegetables like carrots and celery.
Most recipes for beer cheese soup take between 15 and 35 minutes of active cooking time. However, it's important to note that the soup may need to simmer for several minutes to thicken properly, and some recipes recommend making it a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop.
The type of beer used in beer cheese soup can vary depending on your preference. Generally, a low-hop or pilsner beer is recommended to avoid bitterness. However, some people prefer to use a pale ale or a darker, fuller-bodied beer for more robust flavor. It's best to use a beer that you enjoy drinking on its own.
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese in beer cheese soup. Some people like to use a combination of cheeses, such as gouda or habanero cheese, to add depth of flavor. It's important to use high-quality cheese with a bold flavor that will complement the beer.
