Beer & Cheddar Soup

This is one of my favorite soups. Especially when paired with some homemade soft and chewy soft pretzels! 

• 1/2 pound of bacon. cut into 1 inch strips.
• 1 celery rib, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 large jalapeno, seeded and chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 Tablespoon chopped Thyme
• 1 (12oz) bottle of beer, whatever is on hand, we usually have Fat tire around
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 4 Tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz smoked gruyere, shredded
• salt and pepper for taste

In a large saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon transfer to a paper towel lined bowl. Set aside. To the bacon grease add the celery, onion, jalapeno, garlic, and thyme. Cook over medium heat until softened, about 8 minutes. Add half of the beer and cook until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. In a small sauce pan, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook over medium heat, stirring, until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.Whisk the flour mixture into the soup until incorporated and bring to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 8 minutes. Add the heavy cream, cheeses and the rest of the beer and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thick and creamy, about 5 minutes. Stir in the bacon and season with salt and pepper.  Add more chicken broth if too thick. Serve hot.

Recipe from:

http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/beer-and-cheddar-soup