Canadian Cheese Soup
This Canadian Cheese Soup is a rich, velvety classic that perfectly balances smoky bacon with sharp cheddar and a malty finish from the lager. It’s an incredibly comforting dish, often associated with the famous version served at Epcot’s Le Cellier steakhouse.
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Canadian Cheese Soup
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Bacon, chopped | 1/2 lb |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Celery ribs, finely chopped | 3 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Chicken stock | 3 cups |
| Milk | 4 cups |
| Sharp cheddar cheese, grated | 1 lb |
| Tabasco sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Pale or golden lager (preferably Canadian) | 1/2 cup |
| Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Chopped green onion or chives (optional) | For garnish |
How To Make Canadian Cheese Soup:
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion, celery, garlic, and butter to the pot. Cook until the onion has softened, about 5 minutes more.
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Step 3: Build the Roux: Add the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it starts to turn golden and develops a nutty aroma (about 4 minutes). This ensures the flour taste is cooked out.
Step 4: Simmer the Stock: Whisk in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for 1 minute to thicken, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the Milk: Add the milk and continue simmering for another 15 minutes. Important: Ensure the soup does not reach a boil once the milk is added to prevent curdling.
Step 6: Incorporate Flavor: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the grated cheese, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and smooth.
Step 7: Blend and Finish: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a mostly smooth consistency. Stir in the 1/2 cup of lager and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or chives.
