Cheddar Beer Soup

Cheddar Beer Soup

3 tbsp butter

1 1/2 cups onion, finely diced

1 cup red pepper, finely diced

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp dry mustard

1/3 cup flour

2 cups milk

2 cups chicken stock

1 bottle beer, ale or dark beer 12 oz

3/4 lb old cheddar cheese, shredded, and extra for garnish 

Pinch of cayenne pepper

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional add ins

Diced potatoes

Diced ham

Crumbled bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter, add onions and pepper. Sautée until tender, approximately 6 minutes. Stir in garlic and dry mustard and cook 1 minute more. Add flour and stir for about 3 minutes, coating vegetables evenly. 

Gradually add milk, whisking until well blended. Add chicken stock and beer and bring to a simmer, stirring often. Add cheese and reduce heat to medium low, stirring until meltd. Add cayenne and salt and pepper. 

Add cooked diced potatoes and/or diced ham and heat through. 

Ladle into bowls and garnish with cheese and bacon if desired.