Ingredients
Base
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Protein and Vegetables
- 1-½ cups cooked chicken, diced (optional)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (optional)
- 2-3 medium poblano peppers, roasted and diced
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
Liquids and Thickener
- 1 cup chicken stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
Dairy
- 5 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Sauté Onions: Add the diced onions and cook for 8-10 minutes until they become tender and translucent, developing sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, enhancing the soup’s aroma.
- Add Main Ingredients and Simmer: Add the diced tomato (if using), cooked chicken (if using), cumin, salt, pepper, roasted poblano peppers, and chicken stock. Simmer this mixture for 8-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld and ingredients to soften.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour into the half and half until smooth to prevent lumps.
- Thicken Soup: Slowly add the flour and half-and-half mixture to the saucepan while stirring constantly to thicken the soup evenly without lumps.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, extra grated cheese, and diced poblano peppers as desired for added crunch and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
- Roast and peel the poblano peppers before dicing for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the number of poblanos based on your preferred heat level.
- Use fresh sharp white cheddar cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
- Garnish with tortilla strips and cilantro to add texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free