cream of hatch green chile soup

Lemon

3 min read

·

31-01-2025

1

0

Share

Ah, the magic of Hatch green chiles! Their unique flavor profile, ranging from subtly sweet to fiery hot, transforms any dish into a culinary masterpiece. And when it comes to soup, a creamy Hatch green chile soup reigns supreme. This isn't your average, run-of-the-mill soup; it's a comforting bowl of deliciousness, perfect for chilly evenings or a spicy midday pick-me-up. This guide will walk you through creating this flavorful soup, covering everything from choosing the right chiles to perfecting the creamy texture.

Understanding the Hatch Green Chile

Before diving into the recipe, let's appreciate the star ingredient: the Hatch green chile. These chiles, grown in the Hatch Valley of New Mexico, boast a unique flavor profile that's both sweet and spicy. The heat level varies depending on the chile's ripeness, ranging from mild to fiery. For this creamy soup, you can adjust the heat level to your preference by selecting milder or hotter chiles. You can find them fresh (in season) or roasted and frozen in many supermarkets.

Recipe: Creamy Hatch Green Chile Soup

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 pounds Hatch green chiles, roasted and peeled (adjust quantity based on desired heat level)
• 4 cups chicken broth (vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (for vegan option)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, tortilla strips

Instructions:

1. Roast the Chiles: If using fresh chiles, roast them over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin is blackened. Place them in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for about 10 minutes. Then, peel off the blackened skin.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the roasted Hatch green chiles, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, and oregano to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Blend for Creaminess: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
5. Stir in Cream: Return the blended soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Heat through gently; do not boil.
6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or tortilla strips.

Tips for the Perfect Bowl

• Adjust the Heat: Control the spice level by using a combination of mild and hot chiles or by adjusting the quantity.
• Enhance the Flavor: A touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder adds depth and complexity.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. You could also stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) at the end.
• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Beyond the Basic Recipe: Variations to Explore

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique variations:

• Chicken or Vegetarian: Easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add cooked chicken, shredded pork, or beans for extra protein.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
• Creamy Variations: Experiment with different types of cream, such as half-and-half or even a cashew cream for a vegan option.

This creamy Hatch green chile soup is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. So gather your ingredients, put on your chef's hat, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness you create. Enjoy!