Soups

Canadian Cheddar Soup

Name: Canadian Cheddar Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 slices bacon, cut into 3/4-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1/4 cup finely diced shallot; 1/4 cup finely diced celery; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups chicken bone broth; 1 1/2 cups high protein 2% milk; 4 ounces white Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded; 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon grainy Dijon mustard; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Salt, to taste (optional)

A rich and creamy Canadian Cheddar Soup, featuring crispy bacon, sharp white cheddar, and a hint of Dijon, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon pieces over medium heat until crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
Add the unsalted butter to the pot with the reserved bacon fat (if needed). Reduce heat to medium-low, then add the finely diced shallot and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux.
Gradually whisk in the chicken bone broth, ensuring no lumps form. Then, slowly whisk in the milk until well combined and smooth.
Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the soup has slightly thickened.
Reduce the heat to low. Add the freshly shredded white Cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and grainy Dijon mustard. Stir continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Taste the soup and season with freshly ground black pepper, and salt if desired.
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with the reserved crispy bacon pieces. Serve immediately.

This hearty Canadian Cheddar Soup celebrates classic flavors with a touch of sophistication, making it an ideal dish for a chilly evening. It offers a comforting warmth and a delightful texture that truly satisfies. The combination of savory bacon, aromatic vegetables, and sharp cheddar creates a truly satisfying culinary experience.