Dutch Mustard Soup Recipe

Dutch Mustard Soup, or Mosterdsoep, is one of those dishes that perfectly embodies the comforting warmth of Dutch cuisine. Often enjoyed in the colder months, this rich and flavorful soup is not only a taste of Dutch tradition but also a delightful way to introduce your palate to the boldness of mustard. A dish with roots going back centuries, Dutch mustard soup is still a beloved meal in the Netherlands.

It might sound a bit unconventional at first-mustard in soup? But once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why it’s a crowd favorite. The mustard adds a distinct sharpness, balanced by the creamy texture, creating a savory depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and uniquely delicious. This isn’t just any ordinary mustard soup; it’s packed with complexity, warmth, and history. Let’s dive into the recipe and see just how easy it is to make this Dutch classic at home.

Dutch Mustard Soup Recipe

Now that we’ve piqued your interest, let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the recipe. Dutch Mustard Soup is easy to make and will leave you with a bowl of comforting goodness that’s both hearty and tangy. Here’s how to make this Dutch classic from scratch:

Ingredients Needed

To get started, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create this deliciously unique soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter – 3 tablespoons (For a rich, buttery base that adds to the smoothness of the soup)
• Onion – 1 medium (Finely chopped, for sweetness and depth)
• Carrot – 1 medium (Grated, for a slight sweetness and added texture)
• Flour – 3 tablespoons (For thickening the soup)
• Vegetable broth – 4 cups (Or chicken broth if you prefer a richer taste)
• Mustard – ¼ cup (Dutch mustard, or Dijon for a milder version)
• Heavy cream – 1 cup (For creaminess and a luxurious texture)
• Sugar – 1 teaspoon (To balance the acidity of the mustard)
• Salt and pepper – To taste
• Chives – For garnish (Finely chopped, adding a fresh, onion-like bite)

Cooking Instructions

Cooking Dutch Mustard Soup is a relatively straightforward process, and it doesn’t require much time or effort. Here’s how to make it step-by-step:

1. Sauté The Vegetables

   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.

2. Create The Roux

   • Stir in the flour and cook it for about 2 minutes, making sure to whisk constantly. You’re making a roux here, which is the thickening agent for the soup.

3. Add The Broth

   • Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while continuing to whisk. This helps prevent lumps from forming and creates a smooth base.

4. Bring To A Simmer

   • Let the soup come to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to blend.

5. Stir In The Mustard And Sugar

   • Lower the heat and whisk in the mustard. Start with ¼ cup and adjust depending on how tangy you want the soup.
   • Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity from the mustard.

6. Add The Cream

   • Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. This will create a creamy and velvety texture that makes the soup so comforting.

7. Season

   • Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Garnish And Serve

   • Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped chives for a touch of color and a mild, fresh flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Here’s a little more insight into some of the key ingredients in this Dutch Mustard Soup:

• Mustard: The hero of this dish. Most Dutch recipes call for a specific type of mustard that’s less vinegary than its counterparts from other countries. The mustard in this soup provides a tangy kick that makes it uniquely Dutch. Feel free to experiment with different mustards (like Dijon or whole grain), but try to stick to a milder one for a smoother taste.
• Butter & Cream: These two ingredients are the backbone of the creamy texture in this soup. The butter provides richness and depth, while the heavy cream adds that indulgent, velvety consistency.
• Carrot: While often associated with sweetness in soups, the grated carrot here is a nod to a more traditional ingredient used in Dutch kitchens, and it adds subtle flavor and texture.
• Sugar: You might be surprised to see sugar in a savory soup, but it’s there to balance the sharpness of the mustard. A little goes a long way to mellow out the flavors.
• Vegetable Broth: You could substitute chicken broth, but the vegetable broth gives a cleaner, more neutral base that lets the mustard shine.

Expert Tips

• Mustard Variations: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of mustard to customize the soup’s flavor. Whole grain mustard will add a bit more texture, while a spicy brown mustard will give it a more robust, fiery kick.
• Simmer Longer: If you have the time, let the soup simmer for a bit longer to allow the flavors to meld together. You can even make it a day ahead; mustard soups often taste even better the next day.
• Adding Protein: You can add cooked chicken, ham, or sausage to the soup for extra protein and heartiness. This turns the soup into a complete meal.
• Serving Suggestions: For a more filling dish, pair the soup with hearty bread, like a crusty sourdough or a slice of rye. The bread helps to balance out the soup’s rich and tangy flavors.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner soup, simply adjust the amount of cream or broth. For a thicker version, you can also increase the flour or simmer the soup longer.

Recipe Variations

While the classic Dutch Mustard Soup recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to make it your own. Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Spicy Mustard Soup: Add a bit of chili powder, hot sauce, or even a fresh diced chili to the soup if you want to give it a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the vegetable broth for a richer vegetable stock, and skip the meat (if you add any). It’ll still be hearty and filling.
• Smoked Sausage Mustard Soup: Add slices of smoked sausage (such as kielbasa) into the soup as it simmers for a smoky, savory version.
• Herb Infusion: For a fresh take, you could add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary while the soup simmers, then remove them before serving.
• Cheese Lovers’ Version: Add a handful of grated cheese (like Gouda, which is a Dutch staple) to the soup at the end for a cheesy twist that makes it extra comforting.

Final Words

Dutch Mustard Soup is more than just a traditional recipe; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a soup that’s both satisfying and intriguing. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or impressing guests with something a little outside the norm, this soup has something special about it that will keep you coming back for more.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. And with a few tweaks, you can adapt it to your personal taste preferences. From its rich, creamy texture to the tangy punch of mustard, every spoonful is an experience worth savoring.