Apple Vichyssoise with Bleu Cheese
Introduction
This unique twist on the classic French vichyssoise is a delightful blend of creamy textures and the sweet, tart flavors of apples. A recipe that originates from Disneyland, it combines the smoothness of heavy cream with the tang of bleu cheese, making it a luxurious soup perfect for a special occasion or a refined brunch. Its chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a refreshing, yet rich, dish that will surely impress your guests.
The combination of apples, onions, and the bold addition of bleu cheese makes this Apple Vichyssoise a sophisticated yet comforting dish. Serve it as an appetizer or a unique first course, and watch as it disappears from the table in no time!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet onion | 1/3 cup, diced |
| Apples (preferably tart like Granny Smith) | 2, peeled and diced |
| White wine | 1/3 cup |
| Heavy cream | 2 cups |
| Bleu cheese | 1 tablespoon, crumbled |
| Chicken stock | 2 cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh apples (for garnish) | 1, finely diced |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Value | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 394.6 kcal |
| Fat | 30.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 103.4 mg |
| Sodium | 414.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugar | 12.5 g |
| Protein | 7.7 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (primarily for chilling time)
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
Instructions
-
SautΓ© the Onions
Start by melting the butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced sweet onions to the pan. Sweat the onions gently over low heat, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and soft, about 10 minutes. Avoid allowing the onions to brown; the goal is to release their sweetness. -
Cook the Apples
Add the peeled and diced apples to the pan, stirring them into the softened onions. Allow them to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften and begin to release their juices. This will create a sweet, aromatic base for your soup. -
Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the white wine and chicken stock, stirring the mixture to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once simmering, add the heavy cream to the pan and continue to cook for another 10 minutes. The cream will add a rich, velvety texture to the soup. -
Add Bleu Cheese
Crumble the bleu cheese into the soup, adding it to taste. Start with a tablespoon, and adjust the amount based on how strong you want the cheeseβs flavor to be. Stir the soup until the cheese has completely melted into the liquid, creating a smooth and creamy texture. -
Season to Taste
Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference. The combination of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors should be well-balanced. -
Puree the Soup
Once the soup is fully cooked, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth and velvety. Be sure to blend it thoroughly to achieve a creamy, lump-free consistency. -
Chill
After pureeing, transfer the soup into a large bowl or container and place it in the refrigerator. Chill the soup for several hours, ideally overnight. The flavors will continue to develop as it cools, making it even more flavorful and refreshing. -
Serve
Once the soup is thoroughly chilled, serve it in bowls, garnishing each with finely diced fresh apples for an added touch of texture and sweetness. The combination of the cold soup and the fresh apple garnish creates a beautiful contrast that is both visually appealing and delicious.
Tips for the Best Apple Vichyssoise
-
Choosing Apples: For the best flavor balance, opt for apples that are tart and slightly firm, such as Granny Smith or Braeburn. These will complement the richness of the cream and bleu cheese perfectly.
-
Adjusting the Bleu Cheese: If you prefer a more subtle cheese flavor, start with a small amount of bleu cheese and add more to taste. If you enjoy the boldness of bleu cheese, feel free to increase the quantity.
-
Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad, making it an excellent choice for a light lunch or elegant brunch. Its chilled nature makes it particularly refreshing during warmer months, but itβs equally comforting during the cooler seasons when served with warm accompaniments.
Recipe Variations
For those who want to try different flavor profiles, consider swapping the bleu cheese for another type of creamy cheese, such as goat cheese or a soft Brie. You can also use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
This Apple Vichyssoise with Bleu Cheese is an indulgent, yet simple dish that makes for a perfect addition to your next gathering or special meal. With its refreshing chill time and its deep, savory-sweet flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite among your guests and loved ones.
