Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we’re diving into a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cooler seasons: Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton. This delightful soup marries the natural sweetness of apples with the savory richness of onions, all topped with the tangy goodness of crumbled Stilton cheese. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Time
- Need Equipment
- Tags
- Serving Size
- Difficulty Level
- Allergen Information
- Dietary Preference
- Course
- Cuisine
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Preparation Tips
- Nutritional Information
- Tips and Tricks
- Add-ons
- Side Dishes
- Improvements
- Save and Store
- FAQ
- Conclusion
- References
Introduction
Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton is a modern twist on the classic onion soup, infusing it with the sweetness of apples and the bold flavor of Stilton cheese. This harmonious blend creates a soup that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as an elegant starter for a special occasion.
A Symphony of Flavors
- Apples: Introduce a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Onions: Provide a deep, caramelized flavor base.
- Stilton Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy finish that elevates the entire dish.
This soup is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with vibrant colors and a rich aroma that will entice your guests even before the first spoonful.
Time
- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes
Need Equipment
To prepare Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For sautéing and simmering the ingredients.
- Chef’s Knife: For chopping apples and slicing onions.
- Cutting Board: To provide a safe surface for cutting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the soup.
- Immersion Blender or Regular Blender: To puree the soup to a smooth consistency.
- Mixing Bowl: To crumble the Stilton cheese.
- Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
- Grater (optional): If you prefer grated cheese over crumbled.
Tags
- Cuisine: British, Comfort Food
- Course: Soup, Starter
- Dietary: Vegetarian (if using vegetable broth)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Season: Fall, Winter
- Specialty: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free broth)
Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 2 cups)
Difficulty Level
- Level: Easy
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all levels. With clear instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious soup ready in under an hour.
Allergen Information
- Contains: Dairy (Stilton cheese, butter)
- Potential Allergens: Dairy, Sulfites (in some broths)
Note: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute Stilton with a plant-based cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter or oil.
Dietary Preference
- Vegetarian: Yes, if using vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, if using gluten-free broth.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ingredients as mentioned above.
- Vegan: Requires significant modifications, including using vegan cheese and broth.
Course
- Course: Soup, Appetizer, Starter
Perfect as a warming appetizer or a light main course, especially when paired with a hearty salad or crusty bread.
Cuisine
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
Drawing inspiration from traditional British onion soup, this recipe adds a modern twist with the inclusion of apples and Stilton cheese, enhancing the depth of flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 3-4 medium-sized | Sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji |
| Onions | 2-3 large | Yellow or white, finely sliced |
| Stilton Cheese | 150-200g | Crumbled, British blue cheese |
| Butter | 2-3 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 4 cups (1 liter) | Low-sodium preferred |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
| Nutmeg | A pinch | Freshly grated for best flavor |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small cubes.
- Onions: Peel and finely slice the onions.
- Stilton Cheese: Crumble the Stilton cheese into a mixing bowl. Set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Apples
- Heat the Pot: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook Onions: Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they become translucent, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add Apples: Incorporate the chopped apples into the pot with the onions. Continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the apples begin to soften.
3. Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour in Broth: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Bring to Simmer: Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook: Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Blend the Soup
- Puree: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to avoid spills and burns. Blend until smooth.
- Safety Tip: Always vent the blender lid slightly to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup.
5. Season
- Add Seasonings: Season the pureed soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve
- Ladle the Soup: Pour the hot soup into serving bowls.
- Top with Stilton: Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled Stilton cheese over each bowl of soup. The cheese will begin to melt into the warm soup, adding a rich, tangy flavor.
7. Enjoy
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton while it’s hot. Pair with your favorite bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Preparation Tips
- Choosing Apples: Opt for sweet apple varieties like Gala or Fuji to ensure the soup has the right balance of sweetness and acidity. Avoid overly tart apples as they can make the soup too sharp.
- Onion Selection: Yellow or white onions are preferred for their sweetness and mild flavor. Avoid red onions as their flavor can be too strong and may alter the soup’s color.
- Cheese Alternatives: If Stilton is unavailable, you can substitute with other blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Roquefort. For a milder flavor, consider using a creamy goat cheese.
- Broth Selection: Using a low-sodium broth allows you to control the soup’s saltiness. Vegetable broth makes the soup vegetarian, while chicken broth adds a deeper flavor.
- Blending the Soup: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the soup after blending to remove any remaining bits of apple or onion.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 calories | – |
| Protein | 8-10 grams | 16-20% |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25 grams | 7-8% |
| Dietary Fiber | 3-4 grams | 12-16% |
| Sugars | 12-15 grams | – |
| Fat | 15-18 grams | 23-28% |
| Saturated Fat | 9-11 grams | 45-55% |
| Cholesterol | 30-40 milligrams | 10-13% |
| Sodium | 700-800 milligrams | 29-33% |
| Potassium | 300-400 milligrams | 6-8% |
| Vitamin A | 10-15% of daily recommended intake | – |
| Vitamin C | 10-15% of daily recommended intake | – |
| Calcium | 15-20% of daily recommended intake | – |
| Iron | 4-6% of daily recommended intake | – |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.
Tips and Tricks
- Enhance Depth of Flavor: Caramelize the onions longer to develop a richer, sweeter flavor base for the soup.
- Balance Sweetness: If the soup is too sweet from the apples, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Texture Variation: For a chunkier soup, reserve some of the sautéed onions and apples before blending and stir them back into the pureed soup.
- Herbal Notes: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the simmering process for an added layer of flavor.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
Add-ons
- Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for a delightful crunch.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme, chives, or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Drizzle of Cream: A swirl of heavy cream or crème fraîche can add extra richness to the soup.
- Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness.
- Bacon Bits: For non-vegetarian options, crispy bacon bits can introduce a smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Apple and Onion Soup with the following side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- Crusty Bread: Baguette slices or sourdough bread toasted with garlic butter.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots enhance the meal.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits for an elegant touch.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
Improvements
While the Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton is delicious as is, here are some ideas to elevate and personalize your dish:
- Add a Protein: Incorporate diced chicken breast or lentils to increase the soup’s protein content.
- Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, or Parmesan for varied flavor profiles.
- Incorporate Root Vegetables: Add carrots or parsnips during the sautéing stage for additional sweetness and texture.
- Spice Variation: Introduce spices such as cumin, coriander, or curry powder to give the soup an exotic twist.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a silkier texture.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, a vegan blue cheese alternative, and vegetable broth to make the soup entirely vegan.
Save and Store
Storing the Soup
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Gently reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a little broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
- Microwave: Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the soup is hot.
Note: The texture of the soup may change slightly upon reheating. Stirring well and adjusting the seasoning can help restore its original flavor and consistency.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji are recommended, you can experiment with Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or even Granny Smith apples if you prefer a more tart flavor.
2. Is there a substitute for Stilton cheese?
Yes. If Stilton is unavailable, you can use other blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Roquefort. For a milder taste, consider feta or goat cheese. For a non-blue cheese option, Parmesan or cheddar can also work.
3. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, with some substitutions. Use a plant-based butter or oil, substitute the Stilton with a vegan cheese alternative, and ensure the broth is vegetable-based and free from animal products.
4. How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can add a peeled and diced potato during the simmering stage or incorporate a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Blend well to ensure a smooth consistency.
5. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. Fresh crumbled Stilton is best added just before serving to maintain its texture.
6. What can I use instead of butter?
If you’re looking to reduce saturated fat or make the soup dairy-free, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
7. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. The soup stores well in the refrigerator and freezes nicely, making it a convenient option for meal prepping.
Conclusion
Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The sweetness of apples harmonizes beautifully with the savory onions and the rich tang of Stilton cheese, resulting in a soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a warm bowl on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
References
- Traditional Onion Soup Inspirations: This recipe draws inspiration from classic French and British onion soups, adapting them with modern flavors and ingredients.
- Stilton Cheese Information: For more about Stilton cheese, visit British Stilton Cheese.
- Cooking Techniques: Techniques for sautéing and blending are based on standard culinary practices as outlined in Culinary Basics.
Enjoy crafting this delicious Apple and Onion Soup with Crumbled Stilton, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us at Love With Recipes! 🍏🧅🍲🧀😋
