Hello, food lovers! Today, we are diving into the rich and creamy world of a classic comfort dish: Canadian Cheese Soup. This deliciously cheesy recipe, packed with ham, red potatoes, carrots, and leeks, is the perfect warm meal to cozy up with during chilly nights. Whether you’re a fan of hearty soups or just love the creamy goodness of cheese-based dishes, this soup is bound to hit the spot!
Introduction
Canadian Cheese Soup is a traditional Canadian dish that blends the heartiness of vegetables with the smooth, savory goodness of melted cheese. Originating from Canada’s colder regions, this soup has become a favorite due to its soul-warming qualities. What sets this dish apart is the combination of sharp cheddar cheese with tender vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and leeks, all brought together with a delicious ham base. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy comfort foods and easy-to-make meals. Plus, this gluten-free recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy it without restrictions.
And if you’re a fan of delicious homemade sauces, be sure to check out this Chick-fil-A sauce recipe to pair with your meal!
Ingredients for Canadian Cheese Soup
To make this delectable Canadian Cheese Soup, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- ½ cup onions, diced
- 1 leek, green top removed, thoroughly washed and sliced
- 2 tsp. sea salt or kosher salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
- 2 cups cooked, cubed ham
For the Cheese Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup gluten-free or regular all-purpose flour
- 1 quart whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half or cream for extra richness)
- 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to mix and match cheese varieties)
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with a plant-based alternative like smoked tofu.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
How to Make Canadian Cheese Soup – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the chicken broth, potatoes, celery, carrots, onions, and leeks. Add the salt and pepper for seasoning. Bring everything to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the vegetables are simmering, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Slowly add the cream, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking until smooth and thickened.
Step 3: Add Cheese to the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Cheese Sauce with the Soup
Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the simmered vegetables and stir to combine. Add the cubed ham and heat the soup through for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated through and combined, your Canadian Cheese Soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Helpful Tips for Canadian Cheese Soup
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of the soup. Fresh potatoes, leeks, and carrots bring a natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda or Swiss, for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth, or add more flour to the cheese sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Canadian Cheese Soup
- Use a Whisk for the Sauce: When making the cheese sauce, a whisk helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Choose the Right Pot: A Dutch oven is ideal for this soup, as it distributes heat evenly and maintains a consistent simmer.
- Avoid Boiling the Cheese Sauce: When heating the cheese sauce, avoid bringing it to a boil as this can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.
Serving Suggestions for Canadian Cheese Soup
Canadian Cheese Soup pairs wonderfully with fresh, crusty bread or homemade croutons. You could also serve it alongside a crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup. For beverages, a chilled glass of white wine or a hot cup of apple cider would complement the dish perfectly.
Nutritional Information
For those keeping an eye on their nutritional intake, here’s a breakdown:
- Calories: 578 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 38g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 1240mg
- Calcium: 250mg
- Vitamin A: 60% of daily value
Storage and Leftovers for Canadian Cheese Soup
To store your Canadian Cheese Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the consistency.
For freezing, avoid adding the cheese sauce before freezing as it may not reheat well. Simply freeze the vegetable and ham mixture, then add the fresh cheese sauce after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Canadian Cheese Soup
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetable and ham portion in advance and refrigerate or freeze it. Add the cheese sauce fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or even bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
3. Can I make this soup without ham?
Absolutely! You can skip the ham for a vegetarian version or substitute it with smoked tofu or a plant-based meat alternative.
4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Make sure to add the cheese slowly and avoid overheating the sauce. Cooking it over medium heat and stirring constantly helps maintain a smooth texture.
Related Recipes for Canadian Cheese Soup Lovers
Looking for more cheesy delights? Check out these recipes:
- Grimace Shake Recipe – A Viral Sensation Unveiled
This unique shake is a creamy, sweet treat that will have everyone talking! - Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
A robust casserole dish with a cheesy twist, perfect for feeding a crowd!
Conclusion
Canadian Cheese Soup is a hearty, creamy, and soul-warming dish that’s perfect for any cold evening. Its rich combination of ham, vegetables, and cheese sauce will leave you feeling comforted and satisfied. I hope you try this delicious recipe, and don’t forget to let me know your personal variations in the comments! Enjoy this cozy bowl of goodness and check out more comforting recipes like the Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread while you’re at it!
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Canadian Cheese Soup – Rich, Creamy, Comforting Recipe
Description
Hello, food lovers! Today, we are diving into the rich and creamy world of a classic comfort dish: Canadian Cheese Soup. This deliciously cheesy recipe, packed with ham, red potatoes, carrots, and leeks, is the perfect warm meal to cozy up with during chilly nights. Whether you’re a fan of hearty soups or just love the creamy goodness of cheese-based dishes, this soup is bound to hit the spot!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- ½ cup onions, diced
- 1 leek, green top removed, thoroughly washed and sliced
- 2 tsp. sea salt or kosher salt
- ½ tsp. pepper
- 2 cups cooked, cubed ham
For the Cheese Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup gluten-free or regular all-purpose flour
- 1 quart whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half or cream for extra richness)
- 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (feel free to mix and match cheese varieties)
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with a plant-based alternative like smoked tofu.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, combine the chicken broth, potatoes, celery, carrots, onions, and leeks. Add the salt and pepper for seasoning. Bring everything to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
While the vegetables are simmering, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Slowly add the cream, about ¼ cup at a time, whisking until smooth and thickened.
Step 3: Add Cheese to the Sauce
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Cheese Sauce with the Soup
Pour the cheese sauce into the pot with the simmered vegetables and stir to combine. Add the cubed ham and heat the soup through for another 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is heated through and combined, your Canadian Cheese Soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables to enhance the flavor of the soup. Fresh potatoes, leeks, and carrots bring a natural sweetness and crunch to the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like Gouda or Swiss, for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Consistency Adjustments: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth, or add more flour to the cheese sauce.
