Creamy Brie Soup Recipe

Brie Soup is a delightful culinary experience that brings together the creamy, rich flavors of Brie cheese with a mix of fresh vegetables. It’s an exquisite comfort food, perfect for a sophisticated lunch or a comforting snack on a chilly day. This recipe is designed to be accessible yet indulgent, making it a great choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices.

Recipe Overview

• Name: Brie Soup
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Description: Make and share this Brie Soup recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
• Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
• Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Cheese, Vegetable, Meat, Canadian, European, Christmas, < 60 Mins, Stove Top, Easy
• Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
• Review Count: 2
• Calories: 452.8 per serving
• Fat Content: 29.8 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 17.8 g
• Cholesterol Content: 93.1 mg
• Sodium Content: 1950.2 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 12.5 g
• Fiber Content: 0.8 g
• Sugar Content: 2.4 g
• Protein Content: 24.6 g

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock (vegetable stock can be substituted for a vegetarian option)
• 2 cups white wine
• 2 large carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, finely diced
• 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 12 ounces Brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roux:

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   • Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan over low heat.
   • Once melted, add the all-purpose flour. Stir constantly to combine and cook the mixture until it just begins to turn golden. This will form a roux, a base for the soup that will help to thicken it and give it a rich flavor.

2. Add the Stock:

   • Gradually add the chicken stock to the roux, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming.
   • Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
   • Skim any impurities that rise to the top to ensure a smooth texture.

3. Reduce and Strain:

   • Continue simmering until the mixture is reduced to about two-thirds of its original volume and has the consistency of heavy cream.
   • Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps and return it to the saucepan over low heat.

4. Incorporate the Brie:

   • Add the Brie cheese to the saucepan. Cook slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally until the cheese has completely melted into the soup base.

5. Add Wine and Vegetables:

   • Pour in the white wine and add the carrots, celery, and mushrooms.
   • Simmer gently until the vegetables are tender but still slightly firm, known as al dente.

6. Combine with Cream:

   • In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over low heat until warm.
   • Gradually add the warm cream to the soup, stirring constantly to blend the flavors.

7. Season and Serve:

   • Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped chives or scallions for a burst of color and a fresh, vibrant taste.

8. Final Touch:

   • Note that the flavor of the soup can vary depending on the ripeness of the Brie cheese. For a more pronounced flavor, allow the Brie to sit out at room temperature for 3 to 9 hours before using it in the soup, according to your personal taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Brie Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, such as a baguette or a rustic sourdough, which can be used to soak up the creamy broth. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.

Nutritional Information

For those mindful of nutritional content, this Brie Soup offers a rich profile:

• Calories: 452.8 kcal per serving
• Fat: 29.8 g
• Saturated Fat: 17.8 g
• Cholesterol: 93.1 mg
• Sodium: 1950.2 mg
• Carbohydrates: 12.5 g
• Fiber: 0.8 g
• Sugars: 2.4 g
• Protein: 24.6 g

The high-fat content, primarily from the heavy cream and Brie cheese, makes this soup exceptionally creamy and indulgent. The sodium content is also significant, largely due to the cheese and the stock used, so adjusting the amount of added salt can help manage it according to dietary preferences.

Tips for Success

1. Cheese Quality: Use high-quality Brie for the best flavor. The ripeness of the cheese will affect the overall taste of the soup, so choose according to your flavor preference.

2. Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it with a bit more stock or cream. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.

3. Vegetable Variations: While carrots, celery, and mushrooms are used in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like leeks or shallots for different flavor profiles.

4. Wine Choice: Use a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will be concentrated in the soup. Avoid sweet wines, as they can make the soup overly sweet.

5. Garnishes: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg can enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock to make the soup suitable for vegetarians. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have white wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional stock or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make the soup gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Be sure to dissolve the cornstarch in a bit of cold water before adding it to the butter to avoid lumps.

Can I freeze Brie Soup?

While the soup can be frozen, the texture may change slightly due to the cream. For best results, freeze before adding the cream and then add it when reheating.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

Cultural Context and Variations

Brie Soup is a luxurious dish with roots in European cuisine, particularly French, where Brie cheese originates. This soup is often enjoyed during festive occasions, such as Christmas, where it serves as an elegant starter. The use of Brie, a cheese with a delicate, creamy profile, lends a touch of sophistication to this dish, making it a popular choice for holiday menus.

In Canada, where French culinary influences are prominent, Brie Soup is also a cherished dish, often enjoyed during the winter months for its comforting and warming qualities.

Variations

• Smoked Brie Soup: Add a depth of flavor by using smoked Brie cheese. This variation provides a delightful twist and a hint of smokiness that pairs well with a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

• Brie and Potato Soup: For a heartier version, add diced potatoes along with the vegetables. The potatoes will add a creamy texture and additional body to the soup.

• Brie and Leek Soup: Substitute the celery and carrots with leeks for a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the Brie cheese beautifully.

Conclusion

Brie Soup is a sophisticated and comforting dish that brings together the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the fresh crunch of vegetables. Its simplicity in preparation belies the complex and indulgent flavors it offers, making it an ideal choice for an impressive lunch or a decadent snack. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying it on a cozy evening at home, this Brie Soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich, velvety texture and the nuanced flavors that this delightful soup brings to your table.