Dutch cheese soup is a velvety and flavorful dish that showcases the rich taste of Dutch cheeses. Often enjoyed as a comforting starter, this creamy soup pairs wonderfully with dark bread and a glass of white wine.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
• ¾ cup (200 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
• 14-18 ounces (400-500 grams) grated young Gouda cheese
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• fresh chives, finely chopped, for garnish
• dark bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté the vegetables
   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the broth
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Blend the soup
   • Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only part of the soup.
4. Incorporate the dairy and cheese
   • Lower the heat and slowly stir in the milk or heavy cream.
   • Gradually add the grated Gouda cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Serve
   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
   • Garnish with finely chopped fresh chives.
   • Serve with slices of dark bread.

Tips:

• Extra richness: For extra richness, you can mix in a bit of aged Gouda or cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Wine: For an extra touch of indulgence, pair this creamy cheese soup with a glass of white wine.

Enjoy this comforting Dutch classic as a delightful start to your meal.