Linda CainImagine a chilly evening. You’re sitting by a warm fire, the aroma of a delightful soup fills the air. What could pair better with Neiman Marcus soup than a simple yet fulfilling grilled cheese sandwich? The crispy, golden exterior, with gooey melted cheese peeking through, balances beautifully with the rich, creamy flavor of the soup. It’s comfort food at its finest. Grab a slice, dip it into the soup, and enjoy that satisfying crunch! Trust me; it’s a match made in culinary heaven.
As a food enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours trying out various recipes. But there’s something special about the Neiman Marcus soup. Perhaps it’s the way the flavors meld together or maybe it’s the nostalgia of enjoying a bowl after a long day. This recipe is not just a soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture and the kick from the green chilies, this dish is a staple in my kitchen. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting recipe.
What is Neiman Marcus Soup?
The Neiman Marcus soup has a rich history. Originating from the famous Neiman Marcus restaurant, this soup is a blend of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s known for its creamy consistency and zesty flavors, making it a favorite among many. Combining simple ingredients creates an extraordinary dish worth sharing.
The Ingredients
You won’t need a magic wand to whip this up. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 cups of half-and-half cream
- 4 cups of chicken stock
- 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 (3-ounce) cans of chopped green chilies, thoroughly drained
- 4 (14-ounce) cans of diced tomatoes, well-drained
- 12 ounces of cream cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons of additional lemon juice
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Sea salt to taste
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Crispy corn tortilla strips
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
How to Make Neiman Marcus Soup
This soup is straightforward to make but bursting with flavors. I love how easy the steps are, which makes it approachable even for novice cooks. Let’s break it down further.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
First, melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté it until it turns soft and translucent. This process brings out the sweetness in the onions, which creates a lovely foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Chicken Stock
Once the onions are ready, it’s time to pour in 4 cups of chicken stock. This adds depth to the soup. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let the flavors meld together.
Step 3: Introduce the Tomatoes and Green Chilies
Next, carefully add the well-drained diced tomatoes and chopped green chilies into the pot. Stir them in! The added colors create an inviting appearance.
Step 4: Bring in Creamy Elements
Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until it melts and incorporates into the soup. This step is vital—don’t rush it. The cream cheese is what gives the soup its luscious texture.
Step 5: Season to Perfection
In the next step, add the half-and-half cream. Stir until well combined. Then, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper and salt to taste. A little heat goes a long way in balancing the creaminess.
Step 6: Enhance the Flavor
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and smoked paprika. These ingredients provide a wonderful contrast to the rich soup, brightening the overall flavor.
Step 7: Final Touch
Lastly, toss in the chopped cilantro. It adds freshness and a pop of flavor. Let the soup heat through—just a few more minutes will do.
Notes
Here are some handy tips I’ve gathered over the years:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce always boosts flavor.
- Experiment with spice levels: Adjust the cayenne to suit your taste, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
- Blending: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending the soup with an immersion blender.
- Serving temperature: This soup tastes best when served hot.
- Garnishing: Don’t skip the crispy corn tortilla strips; they add that crunchy texture you’ll adore.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just be sure to leave out the tortilla strips until you serve it.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove. Add a splash of chicken stock to bring back the initial creaminess.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
This soup is versatile and can be paired with various dishes. Here are some delightful suggestions:
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic! The melty cheese complementing the rich soup can’t be beaten.
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of sourdough provides the perfect dipping experience.
- Salad: A side salad adds freshness and balances the meal.
- Tacos: Try serving small tacos alongside; the crunchy texture works wonders.
- Cornbread: A slice of this sweet bread is the best companion for a bowl of soup.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Neiman Marcus Soup?
Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. Don’t fret—here are some substitutes that work well:
- Chicken Stock: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option. It retains a depth of flavor.
- Half-and-Half: Heavy cream can be swapped for a richer taste.
- Cream Cheese: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative, though the texture will differ slightly.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes work too. Just make sure to peel and chop them.
- Green Chilies: If these aren’t available, jalapeños or poblanos can be excellent substitutes, delivering heat and flavor.
Neiman Marcus Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
- 1 large onion finely diced
- 2 cups of half-and-half cream
- 4 cups of chicken stock
- 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 3 3-ounce cans of chopped green chilies, thoroughly drained
- 4 14-ounce cans of diced tomatoes, well-drained
- 12 ounces of cream cheese cubed
- 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons of additional lemon juice
- A pinch of cayenne pepper
- Sea salt to taste
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Crispy corn tortilla strips
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- First, melt the unsalted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté it until it turns soft and translucent. This process brings out the sweetness in the onions, which creates a lovely foundation for the soup.
- Once the onions are ready, it’s time to pour in 4 cups of chicken stock. This adds depth to the soup. Bring it to a gentle simmer and let the flavors meld together.
- Next, carefully add the well-drained diced tomatoes and chopped green chilies into the pot. Stir them in! The added colors create an inviting appearance.
- Reduce the heat to low. Now, add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until it melts and incorporates into the soup. This step is vital—don’t rush it. The cream cheese is what gives the soup its luscious texture.
- In the next step, add the half-and-half cream. Stir until well combined. Then, sprinkle in the cayenne pepper and salt to taste. A little heat goes a long way in balancing the creaminess.
- Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and smoked paprika. These ingredients provide a wonderful contrast to the rich soup, brightening the overall flavor.
- Lastly, toss in the chopped cilantro. It adds freshness and a pop of flavor. Let the soup heat through—just a few more minutes will do.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce always boosts flavor.
- Experiment with spice levels: Adjust the cayenne to suit your taste, or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
- Blending: For an ultra-smooth texture, consider blending the soup with an immersion blender.
- Serving temperature: This soup tastes best when served hot.
- Garnishing: Don’t skip the crispy corn tortilla strips; they add that crunchy texture you’ll adore.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
As I reflect on my cooking adventures, the Neiman Marcus soup holds a special place in my heart. Its blend of flavors and textures makes it a go-to dish. Bring it to your next gathering, and I guarantee it will be a crowd-pleaser. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, summon your inner chef, and immerse yourself in this delightful soup experience. Let’s make soup magic happen!
