Cheesy Vegetable Cream Soup with Bacon and Cheese Sticks
This hearty and delicious soup is a comforting blend of creamy cheese and wholesome vegetables, paired perfectly with crispy bacon and cheese sticks. The mixture of potatoes, carrots, and turnips creates a smooth base, which is enhanced by the rich flavors of melted cheese and a hint of fresh herbs. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the cheese sticks made from puff pastry provide an extra layer of cheese indulgence. This soup is not only a treat for the taste buds but also visually appealing with its vibrant garnishes. Ideal for a cozy meal on a chilly day, it is perfect to be enjoyed with family and friends. It caters to cheese lovers and those who appreciate the comforting flavors of homemade cooking. With a preparation time of just under an hour, it’s a practical option for weeknight dinners. This dish can easily be adjusted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to make it even more special.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Turnip
- Celery
- Onions
- 4 slices of Dzintara melting cheese
- Bacon
- Greens
- Puff pastry
- Cheese
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 60 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by peeling and chopping the **potatoes**, **carrots**, **turnip**, **celery**, and **onions** into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Boil the vegetables in a pot until they become tender, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
- In a skillet, lightly sauté the celery and onions until they are fragrant and translucent.
- Add the sautéed mixture to the pot of boiled vegetables.
- Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Place the pot back on low heat and incorporate the **Dzintara melting cheese**, stirring gently until the cheese is fully integrated.
- Meanwhile, in a separate pan, cook the **bacon** until it reaches your preferred level of crispiness; set aside on a paper towel to drain excess fat.
- Roll out the **puff pastry** on a flat surface and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
- Cut the pastry into sticks, ensuring each one is evenly covered with cheese.
- Bake the cheese sticks in a preheated oven until golden brown and crispy.
- To serve, ladle the creamy cheese soup into bowls, creating a small well in the center for presentation.
- Place a **teaspoon of melted cheese** in the center of each bowl.
- Crumble bits of crispy bacon over the top for a delightful crunch.
- Garnish with freshly chopped greens for an added burst of color and freshness.
- Pair with the homemade cheese sticks on the side to complete the meal.
- Mixing different types of **cheese** can add additional depths of flavor to the soup.
- The heat level can be adjusted to your preference; add more spice or herbs for variety.
- This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup before serving.
- Enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and textures, elevating your dining experience.
Tips
- Substitute with your favorite vegetables for a unique twist.
- Add crushed red pepper for a subtle kick.
- Use vegetarian bacon for a veggie-friendly version without losing the creamy flavor.
Nutritions
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
Variations
- For a vegan option, replace cheese and bacon with plant-based alternatives.
- Add a splash of white wine or broth for additional depth.
- Gluten-free cheese sticks can be prepared using gluten-free puff pastry.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette.
- Serve alongside crusty artisan bread for extra indulgence.
- Complement with a glass of light white wine or sparkling water.
Best Places
- La Fromagerie - Known for its fine selection of cheese-based dishes. Location: 30 Highbury Park, London, United Kingdom.
- Le Petit Zinc - A charming spot that specializes in French comfort food. Location: 1055 McKinley St, Detroit, USA.
- Cheese Bar - Delight in their modern take on classic cheese recipes. Location: 47 Camden St, Dublin, Ireland.
- Café des Arts - Enjoy artful presentations and rich flavors. Location: 174 Rue Charlot, Paris, France.
- Käse Ecke - Offering traditional and modern cheese delights. Location: 30 Sophienstr, Berlin, Germany.
- The Melting Pot - Fondue and more in a cozy setting. Location: 125 W 43rd St, New York, USA.
- Fromagerie Saint-Jean - Authentic Swiss cheese experience. Location: 2 Rue de la Paix, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Queso Y Vino - A delightful pairing of cheese and wine. Location: 15 Plaza Mayor, Madrid, Spain.
- Piazza Cheese - Italian cheese dishes with a modern twist. Location: 50 Via Delle Muratte, Rome, Italy.
- Casa del Queso - Celebrating diverse cheese dishes. Location: 86 Calle Larga, Buenos Aires, Argentina.