Beer Cheese Soup

Ingredients

• 12 ounces beer (nothing too dark, light beers work as well)
• 1/2 lb bacon (not in the recipe I remember) (optional)
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup carrot, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, minced
• 1/4 cup red pepper, minced

• 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can condensed chicken broth
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 cup half-and-half cream
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• garlic-flavored croutons, to garnish
• paprika, to garnish

Directions

1. 1

   Open beer and let stand while you dice the veggies. Saute bacon until crisp (if using); drain, reserving drippings, crumble bacon.

2. 2

   Saute veggies in 2 tablespoons of reserved bacon grease until soft. Add chicken broth.

3. 3

   Fill empty broth can with beer and add to mixture. (save, DO NOT DRINK, the remaining beer!) Bring to boil, then simmer.

4. 4

   Pour remaining beer into mixing bowl (told you not to drink it) and whisk in flour.

5. 5

   Gradually add to broth, stirring constantly, until thick. Add Half & Half, bacon (if desired) and cheese.

6. 6

   Heat until cheese melts. Stir in sugar. Add salt, pepper to taste.

7. 7

   After ladeling into bowls, garnish with croutons and paprika.