Good Morning Darlings!

Autumn is only 5 days away. From my office window, I can see the yellow leaves descending in batches off the trees. It’s like they can’t wait for Fall, either.

This weather means soup. And soup parties. Specifically, Tracy’s soup party.

As I sat in my kitchen last night, listening to the rustling trees and enjoying the chilly breezes, I thought about Tracy’s annual soup party. This thought came to mind:

“Tracy’s soup party takes on the feeling of a Dickensian tale as we all stand in line, waiting for soup, bowl & spoon in hand.”

I guess the change of seasons makes you think deep thoughts. Or not. Soup party might just be around the corner.

How about a lovely cheese soup recipe for our changing season?

Wisconsin Cheese Soup
Courtesy, Allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups diced carrots
1 1/2 cups diced onion
1 1/2 cups diced celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups beer
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup flour
4 cups milk or half and half
6 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dry mustard
popped popcorn, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, stir together carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Stir in hot pepper sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and beer; simmer until vegetables are tender, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Meanwhile, heat butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Stir in flour with a wire whisk; cook, stirring until the flour is light brown, about 3 or 4 minutes. Gradually stir in milk, whisking to prevent scorching, until thickened. Remove from heat, and gradually stir in cheese. Keep warm.

3. Stir beer mixture into cheese mixture. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard. Adjust for hot pepper sauce. Bring to a simmer, and cook 10 minutes. Serve topped with popcorn.

Happy weekend everyone!

xoxo, Patti

Today blogging to Shirley Temple – Animal Crackers In My Soup