Beer Cheese Soup with Croutons

Dive into the heartwarming comfort of Beer Cheese Soup with Croutons, a dish that marries the creamy, rich flavors of beer cheese with the delightful crunch of homemade croutons. This soup is a perfect blend of savory satisfaction and texture, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or whenever you're in need of a comforting meal. The beer's depth adds a complex layer to the cheese's creaminess, while the croutons offer a contrast in texture that elevates the entire experience. Whether served as a starter or a main course, this soup promises to warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients:

For the Beer Cheese Soup:

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1 small onion, finely diced

1 carrot, finely diced

1 celery stalk, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup beer (preferably a lighter ale for a milder flavor or a darker ale for depth)

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

A dash of Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For the Homemade Croutons:

3 cups cubed day-old bread (such as sourdough or French bread)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

 

Instructions:

Prepare the Beer Cheese Soup:

Sauté Vegetables:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Make the Roux:

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes until the flour is golden.

Add Liquids:

Gradually whisk in the broth and beer, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.

Add Cheese and Seasonings:

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the cheddar and Gruyère cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Make the Homemade Croutons:

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Season the Bread:

Toss the cubed bread with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Bake:

Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy, stirring halfway through.

Serving:

Ladle the warm Beer Cheese Soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous handful of homemade croutons right before serving to maintain their crunch. This Beer Cheese Soup with Croutons offers a symphony of flavors and textures that's both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for any occasion that calls for a cozy, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the creamy richness of the soup paired with the crispness of the croutons for a truly delightful dining experience.