Stuck for a simple, but great food-and-wine recipe? Stellenbosch Hills always has your back, thanks to its diverse range of sumptuous food-friendly wines. Specifically with colder months in mind, the winery behind some of South Africa’s most trusted, go-to brands has commissioned a recipe for a hearty dish that pairs with its latest red and white wines.
The dish also happens to be meatless – so great for vegetarians too!
The occasion is the celebration of Stellenbosch Hills’ latest vintage wines – a 2021 Chenin Blanc and 2018 Merlot. Notable for their quality and intense flavour profiles, the wines are great by themselves but even better when served with a delicious meal.
The recipe* that marries the two – a Hungarian-style paprika mushroom soup – was developed for Stellenbosch Hills by well-known foodie and cookbook author, Ilse van der Merwe, aka The Food Fox.
“This hearty, earthy, meatless soup is made with Stellenbosch Hills Chenin Blanc,” says Ilse. “Its crisp acidity just lifts the dish, but also impeccably meets the wine that is served alongside. On the other hand, the umami flavours conjured up by the mushrooms and paprika really connect with the Stellenbosch Hills Merlot, thanks in particular to the wine’s oak and spice.”
“Choose your favourite wine to serve, or just serve with both!”
Method:
In a large wide pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the oil. Add the onions and fry until soft (about 5 minutes). Add the mushrooms, garlic, paprika, thyme and origanum and continue to fry for about 10 minutes, stirring until the mushrooms have softened and the bottom of the pot starts to become sticky.
Add the stock, wine and soy sauce and bring to a simmer – cook for 5 minutes. In a medium jug or mixing bowl, add the milk and flour and whisk to mix thoroughly. Then, add the mixture to the pot along with the cream. Stir well and bring to a simmer, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes until the soup has thickened, stirring often. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, then taste and season further if needed.
Serve hot in bowls, scatter with chopped parsley, toasted bread/croutons, and if you wish, a dollop of sour cream or cream.
The wines are available online via www.stellenbosch-hills.co.za or at leading wine retailers countrywide.
The 2018 Stellenbosch Hills Merlot sells for around R94/bottle; and, the 2021 Stellenbosch Hills Chenin Blanc, for around R63/bottle.
