Mary Berry Blue Stilton And Onion Soup Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting and hearty soup that packs a punch of flavor, you should definitely give Mary Berry’s blue stilton and onion soup a try!

The creamy, rich combination of blue stilton cheese and sweet caramelized onions creates the perfect balance of tangy and savory, while the warming broth adds an extra layer of coziness. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving something indulgent, this soup is bound to satisfy. Plus, Mary Berry’s recipe is easy to follow and guarantees impressive results, so you can enjoy a gourmet soup right in your own kitchen!

Mary Berry Blue Stilton And Onion Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup, you’ll need a delightful mix of ingredients that come together to create a rich, velvety, and satisfying dish. This soup is perfect for those who love the bold flavor of blue cheese combined with the sweetness of caramelized onions. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Onions – You’ll need a fair amount of onions for this soup, typically around 4 large ones. The sweetness of the onions, when slow-cooked, plays a crucial role in balancing the pungent, creamy Stilton cheese.

2. Butter – A couple of tablespoons of butter will help sauté the onions to achieve that soft, golden-brown texture that adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

3. Olive Oil – A splash of olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning while sautéing the onions. It also brings an extra layer of richness to the soup.

4. Garlic – A couple of cloves of garlic add an aromatic foundation and a bit of earthy heat to the soup. Garlic helps to complement the cheese’s strong flavor.

5. Vegetable or Chicken Stock – You’ll need approximately 1 liter (or about 4 cups) of stock to form the base of the soup. Stock adds a savory, umami quality that balances the sharpness of the Stilton.

6. Blue Stilton Cheese – This is, of course, the star ingredient!

   Blue Stilton provides a creamy, tangy flavor that makes the soup indulgent. Typically, about 150-200 grams will give you the right level of richness without overpowering the other ingredients.

7. Milk – A splash of milk helps to smooth the soup and add creaminess without making it too heavy. You can also substitute cream for an even richer result.

8. Fresh Thyme – Fresh thyme brings a subtle herbal note that enhances the savory qualities of the soup, making it even more aromatic.

9. Salt and Pepper – Seasoning is essential to bringing all the flavors together. Salt will help bring out the sweetness of the onions and the tanginess of the Stilton, while pepper provides a gentle heat that balances the creamy texture.

10. Crusty Bread (optional, for serving) – While not strictly necessary, crusty bread is often served alongside this soup for dipping, adding a bit of texture and heartiness to the meal.

Equipment Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup requires a few key pieces of kitchen equipment to ensure the dish is prepared properly and efficiently. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven – A large pot is necessary to sauté the onions and cook the soup evenly. A Dutch oven is a great choice because it retains heat well, ensuring a consistent temperature while simmering.

2. Sharp Knife – A sharp knife will help you finely chop the onions and garlic, making sure they cook evenly and release their full flavors during sautéing.

3. Chopping Board – A sturdy chopping board is essential for chopping the onions and garlic safely and comfortably.

4. Wooden Spoon or Stirring Spoon – A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the soup without scratching your pot, and it helps evenly incorporate the flavors as the ingredients cook together.

5. Ladle – For serving, a ladle makes it easy to scoop up the soup and pour it into bowls without any spills.

6. Cheese Grater or Knife (for Stilton) – If you’re using a whole block of Stilton, you’ll need a cheese grater or a sharp knife to break it into small pieces that will melt smoothly into the soup.

7. Soup Bowls – For serving, you’ll need some nice bowls that can hold the soup comfortably.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup

Step 1: Sauté The Onions

Start by heating a tablespoon of butter and a splash of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, add the sliced onions.

Stir occasionally to ensure the onions cook evenly. You’ll want to cook them low and slow to caramelize and soften.

This process should take around 15-20 minutes. The onions should be golden and soft but not burned.

Step 2: Add The Garlic

Once the onions are tender and caramelized, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute or so until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can give an unpleasant taste.

Step 3: Add The Stock And Thyme

Next, pour in the stock (vegetable or chicken, depending on your preference) and add a sprig of fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir In The Blue Stilton

Once the soup has simmered for a bit, it’s time to add the Stilton cheese. Break the Stilton into chunks and stir it into the soup.

As the cheese melts, it will blend into the soup, creating a rich, creamy base. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.

Step 5: Add The Milk

Pour in a splash of milk (or cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent). Stir it in gently, and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. This will make the soup silky and smooth.

Step 6: Season To Taste

Taste the soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The Stilton is already quite salty, so be careful with the salt. You may also want to adjust the seasoning depending on your preference for tanginess or richness.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish the soup with a little extra crumbled Stilton or a sprig of fresh thyme for added visual appeal. If you like, serve it alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness.

Expert Tips

1. Caramelize the Onions Properly – The key to a great onion soup is in the caramelization.

   Don’t rush the process!

   Cooking the onions slowly on a medium to low heat helps them develop their natural sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by increasing the heat, but be mindful not to burn them.

2. Use a High-Quality Stilton – The flavor of the Stilton is what drives the soup, so don’t skimp on quality. Choose a Stilton that has a strong, tangy taste, and avoid pre-crumbled versions, as they often lack the depth of flavor you want.

3. Balance the Flavors – If the soup feels too tangy or sharp, you can balance it by adding a small amount of honey or a touch of sugar. This can round out the sharpness of the Stilton and add a touch of sweetness that complements the caramelized onions.

4. Add Some Texture – For a bit of crunch, you can serve the soup with toasted croutons or a sprinkle of roasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans. These little additions will add contrast to the smooth, creamy soup.

5. Make Ahead and Freeze – This soup actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. You can make the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. It also freezes well for up to three months.

Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup is a luxurious and comforting dish that offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy cheese and sweet, caramelized onions. It’s an ideal soup for cold weather, cozy gatherings, or when you want something a little special.

The ingredients are simple, but when combined, they create a rich and satisfying bowl of goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this soup is approachable yet impressive, making it a great recipe to add to your repertoire. Serve it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that will warm both the body and the soul.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup

Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup is a wonderfully rich and indulgent dish that can be easily tweaked to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and ingredient availability. While the classic recipe features a perfect balance of creamy Stilton cheese and the deep flavor of caramelized onions, there are several easy variations you can try to elevate the soup or cater to specific needs.

1. Add More Vegetables: For a heartier version, consider adding vegetables such as leeks, carrots, or celery. Leeks, in particular, pair beautifully with onions and will enrich the soup’s flavor. Carrots bring a slight sweetness that contrasts nicely with the sharpness of the blue Stilton. Simply sauté the vegetables with the onions before proceeding with the recipe.

2. Spices and Herbs: While Mary Berry’s soup is beautifully simple, adding a bit of spice or herbal complexity can give the dish a unique twist. A dash of freshly ground black pepper, a pinch of nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can give your soup additional layers of flavor. These herbs pair wonderfully with both the richness of the Stilton and the sweetness of the onions.

3. Change the Cheese: While blue Stilton is a traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of blue cheese for slightly different flavors. Roquefort and Gorgonzola have similar textures but slightly different intensities. Alternatively, for those who prefer a milder blue cheese, try using a creamy variety such as Danish Blue. Non-dairy cheese options, like cashew-based cheeses, could also be a great option for those with lactose intolerance.

4. Switch the Broth: The soup base in the original recipe calls for vegetable or chicken stock, but you can switch it up to suit your dietary preferences or the flavor profile you want to achieve. For a richer flavor, try using beef stock or even bone broth. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple water-based broth with a splash of white wine or vermouth can add a touch of elegance.

5. Vegan or Dairy-Free Option: To create a vegan-friendly version, simply replace the blue Stilton with a dairy-free blue cheese alternative (many are made from cashews or coconut). Use plant-based butter and vegetable stock, ensuring the whole recipe stays dairy-free. The caramelized onions will still provide that sweet, deep flavor, and a dairy-free cream substitute will add that luxurious texture.

6. Add Fruit: For a sweet-savory contrast, try adding a handful of caramelized apples or pears to your soup. The natural sweetness of these fruits complements the sharp, salty notes of the Stilton and onions. A little bit of apple cider vinegar added near the end of cooking can also add a nice tang and balance the flavors.

7. Garnishes and Croutons: You can elevate the presentation of this soup by adding a few garnishes or creative toppings. Crumbled Stilton on top, alongside a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives, adds both color and flavor. A drizzle of truffle oil or balsamic reduction can lend a gourmet touch to the dish.

   Don’t forget the croutons!

   Homemade garlic or thyme-infused croutons, or a buttery slice of toasted sourdough, make perfect accompaniments to the soup’s richness.

By experimenting with these simple tweaks, you can adapt Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup to suit any palate or occasion.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover Blue Stilton and Onion Soup can be a great way to enjoy this rich dish again, but storing and reheating it correctly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some best practices to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and delicious:

1. Cool the Soup Quickly: Before storing any leftovers, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can cause the soup to become watery and dilute the flavors. If you’re in a hurry, place the pot in an ice bath or divide the soup into smaller portions to speed up cooling.

2. Store in Airtight Containers: Transfer your cooled soup into airtight containers to ensure that it stays fresh. Glass containers are ideal because they don’t absorb odors and won’t stain as plastic can. If using plastic, ensure the container is BPA-free and seals tightly. This helps prevent the soup from taking on any undesirable flavors from your fridge.

3. Refrigeration: Leftover Blue Stilton and Onion Soup can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to label the containers with the date you made the soup, so you don’t forget how long it has been stored. Any longer than that, and the flavors might begin to degrade.

4. Freezing Leftovers: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cream and cheese may change slightly once thawed. To freeze, place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions in ziplock bags for easy reheating later. Frozen soup can be kept for up to 3 months.

5. Thawing and Reheating: When reheating frozen soup, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a rush, you can also thaw it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. When reheating, do so gently and avoid bringing the soup to a boil, as this may cause the cheese to separate. You can add a splash of cream or milk to bring back its velvety texture if it appears too thick.

6. Storing Toppings Separately: If you plan to store croutons or any other toppings, it’s best to store them separately to avoid them becoming soggy. Store your croutons in an airtight container at room temperature, and add them just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

By following these simple storage practices, you can enjoy your Blue Stilton and Onion Soup leftovers just as much as the first time.

What Goes Well With Blue Stilton And Onion Soup

Blue Stilton and Onion Soup is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors, making it a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or as a starter for a special occasion, here are some excellent options to serve alongside the soup:

1. Crusty Bread and Butter: A classic pairing with any soup, especially one as rich as Blue Stilton and Onion Soup, is fresh crusty bread. Choose a rustic sourdough, baguette, or a warm, freshly baked baguette. Butter, preferably salted, is a must for spreading on the warm bread for a comforting, satisfying bite. The bread helps soak up the creamy soup and adds a wonderful texture contrast.

2. Salads: A fresh, crisp salad can provide a welcome contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the soup. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil, is ideal. The acidity from the dressing will balance out the richness of the Stilton and onions, providing a refreshing contrast.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables, like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, are a fantastic accompaniment. Their natural sweetness complements the sharpness of the Stilton, and the caramelization from roasting brings out the depth of flavor in the veggies. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary elevate the dish to another level.

4. Charcuterie Platter: A charcuterie board featuring a variety of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, or chorizo, complements the soup’s richness perfectly. The saltiness of the meats contrasts nicely with the creamy soup and enhances the flavor of the blue Stilton. Include some pickles or olives on the board to add acidity and crunch.

5. Wine Pairings: A robust glass of wine pairs wonderfully with Blue Stilton and Onion Soup. A full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay, with its creamy texture, complements the soup’s richness. Alternatively, a light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, with its subtle fruitiness, can provide a nice balance. If you prefer beer, a strong, malty ale or a Belgian Dubbel beer works well, as the flavors of the beer will not overpower the soup.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup is a true comfort food that combines the earthy sweetness of caramelized onions with the tangy richness of blue Stilton. This versatile dish can be easily adapted with various ingredient swaps and additions to cater to different preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to add extra vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or serve it alongside fresh bread or a salad, this soup is a perfect canvas for creativity. Storing leftovers is easy with proper cooling and airtight containers, ensuring you can enjoy this delectable soup again.

Paired with crusty bread, a light salad, or even a charcuterie platter, it’s a complete meal that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main dish, Blue Stilton and Onion Soup will always be a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

The ingredients for Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton and Onion Soup include butter, onions, garlic, flour, vegetable or chicken stock, blue stilton cheese, milk, and seasoning like salt and pepper. You will also need some fresh parsley to garnish.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

The soup typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to prepare and cook. This includes the time needed to sauté the onions, make the soup base, and melt the cheese into the broth.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese Instead Of Blue Stilton In This Recipe?

While blue stilton is key to the flavor profile of this soup, you can substitute it with other blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola. However, the taste and creaminess may vary slightly depending on the cheese you choose.

Is Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup Vegetarian?

Yes, the recipe can be made vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Ensure that the blue stilton cheese is rennet-free if you are serving vegetarians who avoid animal rennet.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Once made, allow it to cool, then refrigerate it for up to 2 days.

Reheat thoroughly before serving. The soup may thicken in the fridge, so you might need to add a little extra milk or stock when reheating.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

This rich and creamy soup pairs well with crusty bread, such as sourdough or a baguette. You can also serve it with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup Vegan?

To make this soup vegan, use a dairy-free blue cheese alternative, plant-based butter, and vegetable stock. You can also substitute dairy milk with a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of milk or stock to restore its creamy consistency.

What Is The Best Type Of Onion To Use In Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

For the best flavor, use a medium to large yellow onion. Yellow onions provide a balance of sweetness and savoriness that complements the richness of the blue stilton cheese.

How Do I Adjust The Thickness Of Mary Berry’s Blue Stilton And Onion Soup?

To adjust the thickness of the soup, you can either add more stock or milk for a thinner consistency, or cook the soup a little longer to reduce it if you’d like it thicker. If the soup becomes too thick after refrigerating, simply add a bit more liquid when reheating.