Chalet Soup (Hearty Alpine Vegetable & Cheese Soup)
When the air turns crisp and the evenings grow longer, few dishes feel as comforting as a bowl of Chalet Soup. Inspired by traditional Alpine cooking, this rustic soup is the kind you’d imagine simmering gently in a mountain chalet after a long day outdoors. It’s hearty without being heavy, rich with vegetables, potatoes, herbs, and a touch of cheese that melts into the broth for warmth and depth.
Chalet Soup is not a single strict recipe but rather a style of soup—simple, nourishing, and made from everyday ingredients. Across Switzerland, France, and neighboring Alpine regions, similar soups have been prepared for generations, designed to feed families using what was on hand. This version balances authenticity with accessibility, making it perfect for home kitchens while still capturing that cozy mountain flavor.
Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or simply craving comfort food, Chalet Soup is a reliable, satisfying choice.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
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Hearty and filling without being overly rich
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Made with simple, affordable ingredients
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Easy to adapt with seasonal vegetables
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Perfect for cold weather, cozy dinners, or casual gatherings
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Tastes even better the next day
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 small leek, sliced and rinsed well
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1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
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1 bay leaf
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4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 cup water (as needed)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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¾ cup grated Alpine-style cheese (Gruyère, Emmental, or similar)
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½ cup cream or milk (optional, for extra richness)
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Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Build the Flavor Base
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently for 5–6 minutes until soft and translucent. Avoid browning; the goal is sweetness, not caramelization.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the carrots, celery, leek, and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and absorb the flavors of the butter and onion.
3. Season and Simmer
Add the thyme and bay leaf, then pour in the broth. If needed, add a little water so the vegetables are just covered. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Blend (Optional)
For a rustic texture, leave the soup as is. For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks intact. This creates a thick, comforting base without losing texture.
5. Finish with Cheese
Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the grated cheese a handful at a time, allowing it to melt fully before adding more. If using cream or milk, add it now and stir gently.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve
Ladle the soup into warm bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Chalet Soup
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Use good broth: Since this soup relies on simple ingredients, a flavorful broth makes a big difference.
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Grate your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
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Keep the heat low when adding cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to separate.
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Let it rest: Like many soups, Chalet Soup tastes even better after sitting for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Variations and Add-Ins
One of the joys of Chalet Soup is how adaptable it is:
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Add protein: Small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or white beans work beautifully.
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Make it vegetarian: Use vegetable broth and extra herbs.
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Extra vegetables: Cabbage, zucchini, or parsnips are traditional and delicious additions.
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More indulgent: Add an extra handful of cheese or a splash of cream.
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Herb twist: Try rosemary or nutmeg for a deeper alpine flavor.
What to Serve with Chalet Soup
This soup pairs perfectly with:
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Crusty bread or baguette
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Rye or sourdough toast
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A simple green salad
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Pickles or lightly dressed vegetables for contrast
For a true chalet-style meal, serve the soup family-style in a large pot at the table and let everyone help themselves.
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
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Freezing: Freeze without cream for best texture, then add dairy when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Chalet Soup is comfort food at its finest—humble, warming, and deeply satisfying. It captures the spirit of Alpine cooking: simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a focus on nourishment and warmth. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet evening at home or sharing a meal with others, this soup brings a little mountain comfort to any table.