Roasted Red Pepper Gouda Soup
A comforting and creamy soup featuring roasted red peppers and Gouda cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large large red bell peppers Provides sweetness and smokiness; ensure roasting for the best flavor.
- 1 head garlic Adds sweetness and depth when roasted; use with the top chopped off to roast.
- 1 medium yellow onion Contributes aromatic sweetness; roast alongside peppers for balanced flavor.
- 3 tbsp olive oil Helps in roasting and enhances flavor; substitute with any neutral oil if needed.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth The soup base; use low-sodium to control salt levels.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream Adds richness and creaminess; can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup Gouda cheese (freshly shredded or cubed) Essential for creaminess and flavor; freshly shredded ensures optimal melting.
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika Adds a subtle smokiness; adjust to taste.
- Salt For seasoning to taste.
- Black pepper For seasoning to taste.
Instructions
Roast the Peppers and Garlic
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red bell peppers and the head of garlic (cut side up) on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for about 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are charred and soft.
Sauté the Onion
- While the peppers are roasting, heat a pot over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it’s translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
- Once the peppers are roasted, remove the skins. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from their skins into the pot alongside the sautéed onions. Add the roasted peppers, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth. If using a traditional blender, let it cool slightly before blending in batches.
Add Cream and Cheese
- Once blended, stir in the heavy cream and Gouda cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Taste and Adjust
- Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning or add more smoked paprika if desired.
Notes
For a spicier soup, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh herbs for extra flavor. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.