There are plenty of things about Disney that are magical, but one of the best is their food offerings. A visit to Epcot Center lets you try dozens of countries’ food in a single visit and it seems like each thing is more delicious than the last. This Canadian Cheese Soup is one of the standouts! Served at the Le Cellier steakhouse in Epcot, it’s the kind of thing you think about long after you’ve tasted it and has developed somewhat of a cult following. But since a Disney visit isn’t always in the cards, it’s great news that you can make it right in your home kitchen with this official Disney recipe.
INGREDIENTS
1/2 lb bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 celery ribs, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken stock
4 cups milk
1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup pale or golden lager, preferably Canadian
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Chopped green onion or chives, for serving (optional)
PREPARATION
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
Add onion, celery, garlic, and butter and cook until onion has softened, about 5 minutes more.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until it starts to turn golden and smell nutty, about 4 minutes.
Whisk in chicken stock and bring to a boil. Let boil 1 minute, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add milk and continue simmering for 15 minutes. Make sure not to boil once milk is added.
Remove from heat and stir in cheese. Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Using an immersion blender, blend until soup is mostly smooth.
Stir in beer and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve garnished with green onion.