Creamy Canadian Cheese Soup With Herb Infused Cheese Swirl

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of creamy cheese soup, especially when it’s infused with the flavors of Canada! This recipe takes the classic Canadian Cheese Soup to the next level with a beautiful and flavorful herb-infused cheese swirl. It’s the perfect cozy meal for a chilly evening, a delightful starter for a special occasion, or simply a heartwarming treat for yourself. We’ve focused on using high-quality ingredients and a simple technique to deliver a soup that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to experience a symphony of cheesy goodness with a touch of fresh herbaceousness!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredient Lineup

• Unsalted Butter (30g / 2 tbsp): We use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness of the soup, allowing the cheese flavor to truly shine. Butter also provides a rich, velvety base for sautéing the vegetables and creating the roux.
• Onion (1 medium / 150g / about 1 cup, finely diced): A foundational aromatic, the onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup. Finely dicing ensures it melts into the soup, creating a smooth texture.
• Carrots (2 medium / 150g / about 1 cup, diced): Carrots contribute a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup. They also add a subtle earthy note that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Celery Stalks (2 / 100g, diced): Celery provides a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and butter. Like the onion, dicing it finely ensures it blends seamlessly into the soup.
• All-Purpose Flour (30g / 2 tbsp): The flour is used to create a roux, which thickens the soup and gives it its signature creamy texture.
• Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (900ml / 4 cups, halal certified): Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level and ensures the cheese flavor isn’t masked. Halal certification ensures the broth meets specific dietary requirements.
• Whole Milk (240ml / 1 cup): Whole milk adds richness and creaminess to the soup. Its higher fat content contributes to a smoother, more luxurious texture.
• Heavy Cream (120ml / ½ cup): Heavy cream elevates the soup’s creaminess to the next level, creating a truly decadent experience.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (300g / 10.5oz, grated, halal-friendly): The star of the show! Sharp cheddar provides a bold, tangy flavor that defines this soup. Grating the cheese ensures it melts evenly and smoothly into the soup. Opting for a halal-friendly cheese caters to specific dietary needs.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a layer of complexity.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors. Freshly ground black pepper provides a more aromatic and robust flavor.
• Extra Heavy Cream (120ml / ½ cup, for swirl): Used specifically for the herb-infused swirl, this adds another layer of richness and visual appeal.
• Fresh Chives (2 tbsp / 30g, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish): Chives provide a delicate oniony flavor and a beautiful green color to the swirl and garnish.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (1 tsp, finely chopped): Thyme adds an earthy, herbaceous note that complements the cheese and chives in the swirl.
• Smoked Paprika (¼ tsp, for swirl): A touch of smoked paprika in the swirl enhances its flavor and adds a subtle smoky aroma.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe is designed for optimal flavor, here are a few substitutions you can make if needed:

• Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.
• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: You can use 2% milk and half-and-half, but the soup won’t be as rich and creamy.
• Fresh Herbs: If you don’t have fresh chives or thyme, you can use dried herbs, but use about 1/3 the amount.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Canadian Cheese Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by melting the butter in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned. This process, known as ‘sweating’ the vegetables, releases their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for the soup.
2. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. This creates a roux – a mixture of fat and flour that acts as a thickening agent for the soup. Continuous stirring is crucial to prevent the flour from burning and to ensure a smooth texture.
3. Incorporate the Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Whisking vigorously is key to preventing lumps and creating a smooth, consistent base. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheddar cheese and ½ tsp smoked paprika. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth. Low heat prevents the cheese from separating or becoming grainy. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth to the cheesy flavor.
5. Season to Perfection: Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed, as the cheese already contributes some saltiness. Keep the soup on low heat while you prepare the herb-infused cheese swirl.
6. Prepare the Herb-Infused Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, combine the extra 120ml heavy cream, 30g grated cheddar, chopped chives, thyme, and ¼ tsp smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and slightly thickened. This swirl adds a beautiful visual element and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
7. Serve and Swirl: Ladle the hot soup into shallow white bowls, leaving a small well in the center. Drop 1-2 tbsp of the herb-infused cheese swirl into each bowl and, using the back of a spoon, create a decorative spiral. The heat of the soup will partially melt the swirl, creating a marbled effect.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Finish with a generous sprinkle of extra fresh chives and a light crack of black pepper. Serve immediately while the soup is steaming and the swirl is glossy.

Why Sharp Cheddar is Key

The foundation of a truly exceptional Canadian Cheese Soup lies in the quality of the cheddar. Sharp cheddar, with its pronounced flavor and slightly crumbly texture, provides the robust cheesy taste we associate with this classic comfort food. Milder cheddars can get lost in the broth, but sharp cheddar stands out, delivering a satisfyingly bold flavor. Using a halal-friendly sharp cheddar ensures the recipe is accessible to a wider range of dietary preferences.

The Science of the Roux

The roux, created by cooking flour in butter, isn’t just about thickening. It’s a fundamental technique in French cuisine that transforms the starch in the flour. Cooking the flour eliminates its raw taste and allows it to absorb the liquid without clumping. The longer the roux is cooked (without burning!), the more its thickening power diminishes, and the more flavor it develops. In this recipe, a short cook time is ideal for a creamy, not overly thick, soup.

Herb Infusion: Beyond Flavor

The herb-infused cheese swirl isn’t just for aesthetics. Chives and thyme offer complementary flavors that elevate the cheesy base. Chives provide a mild oniony note, while thyme adds an earthy, slightly floral aroma. These herbs also contain compounds that can aid digestion, making the soup not only delicious but also a little bit healthier. The smoked paprika in the swirl echoes the subtle smokiness in the soup itself, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Tips for a Lump-Free Soup

Achieving a perfectly smooth soup requires a little attention to detail. Here are a few tips: First, ensure the roux is fully cooked before adding the liquids. Second, add the liquids gradually, whisking constantly. Third, keep the heat at a gentle simmer, avoiding a rapid boil. If lumps do form, don’t panic! Use an immersion blender to smooth them out, or strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. However, be mindful that different cheeses have varying melting points and salt content.

Can this soup be made ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. However, the cheese swirl is best added just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the soup may change upon thawing. The cheese sauce can become grainy.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Creamy Canadian Cheese Soup! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later inspiration!

canadian cheese soup rich creamy comforting recipe

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• Author: Nicole Martinez
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This recipe delivers a creamy and flavorful Canadian Cheese Soup with a beautiful herb-infused cheese swirl. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for a cozy evening.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup finely diced onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 100g diced celery stalks
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 10.5oz grated sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup extra heavy cream (for swirl)
• 2 tbsp finely chopped chives
• 1 tsp finely chopped thyme
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (for swirl)

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Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter and sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened.
2. Make Roux: Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in broth and milk until smooth. Simmer gently.
4. Melt Cheese: Stir in cheddar cheese and ½ tsp smoked paprika until melted and smooth.
5. Season Soup: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Prepare Swirl: Combine heavy cream, cheddar, chives, thyme, and ¼ tsp smoked paprika.
7. Serve & Swirl: Ladle soup and swirl in herb-infused cheese.
8. Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle with chives and pepper.

Notes

For best results, use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese. The herb swirl is best added right before serving to maintain its color and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Canadian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg

Keywords: cheese soup, canadian, creamy, cheddar, herbs, comfort food, easy, soup