Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup
Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of the Badger State. Known for its rich dairy production and brewing traditions, Wisconsin combines two of its beloved ingredients—cheese and beer—to create this creamy, comforting soup.
Perfect for chilly days or as a delightful appetizer at gatherings, this soup showcases the state’s famous cheddar cheese alongside a robust beer, often from one of the local breweries.
This recipe captures the essence of Wisconsin’s culinary heritage, blending creamy cheese with savory vegetables and the bold flavor of beer.
Whether served with a side of crusty bread, pretzels, or as part of a festive gathering, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
To make a delicious Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
- 1 cup beer (preferably a lager or amber beer)
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (preferably Wisconsin cheddar)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or soft pretzels
How to Make Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Create the Roux:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook without browning. This will help thicken the soup.
Add the Liquids:
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the flour. Once incorporated, add the milk (or heavy cream) and beer, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate the Cheese:
Once the soup begins to thicken slightly, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese a little at a time, allowing it to melt and blend into the soup. This process helps to prevent the cheese from clumping.
Flavor the Soup:
Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add additional broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Serve:
Once the soup is thick and creamy, remove it from the heat. Ladle the Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or soft pretzels for dipping.
Chef’s Note
Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup is wonderfully versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. You can also incorporate cooked bacon or sausage for added flavor and richness.
For the best flavor, use a high-quality Wisconsin cheddar cheese, as it will significantly impact the taste of your soup. If you have a favorite local beer, use it for a personal touch. The beer’s flavor will enhance the overall profile of the soup, so choose one that you enjoy drinking.
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 17g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup is a comforting dish that provides a good balance of protein and fats. The cheese contributes calcium, while the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. However, it’s important to be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using canned broth; opting for low-sodium versions can help manage this.
Conclusion
Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup is a rich, hearty dish that embodies the flavors of the Badger State. Its combination of creamy cheddar cheese and robust beer creates a comforting experience perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. This recipe captures the essence of Wisconsin’s culinary heritage, allowing you to bring a taste of the Midwest to your table.
With its smooth texture and rich flavors, Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home, warming both body and soul with every delicious spoonful. Enjoy this comforting classic and share it with friends and family to celebrate the joys of good food and great company!
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