Red Pepper Gouda Soup: A Creamy Delight for Every Occasion
This creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet soup is the ultimate comfort food. Bursting with the flavors of roasted red peppers and Gouda cheese (optional), this dish is versatile, nutritious, and perfect for any season. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a gourmet soup in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- Roasted Red Peppers: 4 large charred and peeled (or 2 cups jarred, drained).
- Smoked Gouda Cheese optional: 1 cup, shredded.
- Tomatoes: 1 cup diced or canned, no-salt-added.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: 4 cups.
- Onion: 1 medium diced.
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon adjust to taste.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon.
Optional Ingredients and Enhancers:
- Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon for extra smokiness.
- Heavy Cream or Plant-Based Milk: ¼ cup for added creaminess.
- Chili Flakes: ¼ teaspoon for a spicy kick.
- Fresh Basil: A few leaves for garnish.
- Lemon Juice: 1 teaspoon for brightness.
Instructions
- 1.If using fresh red peppers, roast them over an open flame or under a broiler until the skins are blackened. Cool slightly, peel, and remove seeds.
- 2.Dice onion, mince garlic, and shred Gouda cheese if using.
Cooking Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add Base Ingredients: Stir in roasted red peppers and tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Blend Smooth: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, blend in batches in a countertop blender.
- Incorporate Gouda (Optional): Return the soup to low heat. Stir in shredded Gouda cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or smoked paprika.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of plant-based cream for vegan versions.