The Creamy Soup You Should Be Adding Bourbon To

When you first think about it, bourbon and soup sounds like an odd pairing. Isn't bourbon meant for sipping at a fancy bar? Soup, on the other hand, is a comfort food that belongs in the warm glow of your kitchen. And yet, there's still room for a splash of bourbon in that simmering pot. But we're not talking about just any random soup, but rather a vibrant, creamy tomato soup, one that's dearly tied to cozy night-ins, cherished memories, and perhaps even an indulgent grilled cheese sandwich. Fused with the essence of the exquisite alcohol, it's a delight unlike any other.

Advertisement

Wherever bourbon goes, its signature warmth follows. The slightly burnt, smoky taste cuts right through the soup's creamy richness. In place of the usual one-note simplicity, the soup has an intriguing undertone. As the flavors unravel, you'll detect hints of the alcohol's woodsy sweetness, playing right into the tomato's tangy sweet notes. Don't worry about the bourbon overpowering the main ingredients. With just the right amount, you'll get the best of both worlds: The classic heartiness of a good tomato soup and the subtle elegance that bourbon is known for —coming together to make homemade meals feel like a fine dining experience.

The fun never ends with this simple addition

Complicated as it may sound, adding bourbon to your soup is a no-fuss step. You won't need much, either. For every 1.5 pounds of tomato, just 2 ounces of bourbon is sufficient. After you have sauteed the aromatics and stirred in the tomatoes, add the bourbon along with other seasonings, and cook until you get a thick mixture. Then, pour in whichever creamy product you use (heavy cream, coconut milk, half-and-half, etc.) and stir everything together. With an immersion blender, blend until the texture is as smooth and creamy as desired.

Advertisement

Your creative streak doesn't have to end there. If you haven't used up all of the ingredients, consider making a bourbon tomato jam. Not only is it a fantastic way to tie the grilled cheese sandwich in with the soup, but you can also save it to add a special twist to future dishes. Of course, a bourbon-infused grilled cheese sandwich isn't such a bad idea, either. And it's even better when the execution is surprisingly easy: Just mix the butter with the bourbon before you spread it onto the bread for grilling.

With just a few small tweaks here and there, you can also make this soup a delightful appetizer. Divide it into shot glasses and add grilled cheese rims to seal the deal. You can even turn the leftover soup into a creamy dip and keep it company with spicy popcorn, grilled cheese croutons, crostini bread, and anything else your heart (and taste buds) desire.

Advertisement

Recommended

Advertisement