Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 ribs celery with leafy tops, finely chopped
• 1 red chili pepper, seeded and very finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper
• 1 rounded tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 rounded tablespoons flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 3 cups chicken stock
  
• 3 cups shredded Gouda cheese
• 1/4 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• Thinly sliced scallions, for garnish
• Warm toasted crusty bread, for dipping