The Disney Pantry: My favorite recipes! Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup

During last year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, I had the pleasure of sampling some wildly delicious dishes from around the world and one of my absolute favorites was from my sampling at the Canada Pavilion. The Canadian Cheddar Cheese soup was to die for! The day was a bit chilly and the warm, velvety goodness of the soup really hit the spot. Below is the recipe for this hearty soup that is sure to satisfy! Enjoy!

   

Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup

Serves 8

Ingredients:

5 cups milk, warmed

½ pound bacon

10 tablespoons butter

1 cup celery

2 each red onions, finely chopped

1 ½ cups flour

1 quart chicken stock

1 pound cheddar cheese, shredded

1 ½ teaspoons Tabasco sauce

3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

12 ounces slightly warm ale

kosher salt, to taste

freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Slowly heat milk.

2. Brown the bacon first, then render until crisp.

3. Add the butter and melt.

4. Add celery and onions, cook until translucent.

5. Add flour and mix thoroughly to form a roux.

6. Add chicken stock and simmer for three minutes.

7. Add warm milk and stir vigorously to thicken.

8. Cook out roux until thickened (it should not have a starchy taste).

9. Reduce heat to low, add cheese, and stir until melted.

10. Season with kosher salt, pepper, Tabasco, and Worcestershire sauce.

11. Just prior to serving, add warm ale.

12. Garnish with cooked bacon and fresh chives.

Cook's note: When re-heating soup, do not bring to a boil, as it will break down.

*Photo above: Two of Canada's three offerings: Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup and Chicken Chipotle Sausage with Sweet Corn Polenta and "Minus 8" Onion Jam ( INCREDIBLE FLAVOR!!!)