February
is a month in which I find myself reflecting on my grandpa, Dick.
My grandpa was a man of many achievements and accomplishments. He was a man who I was always close to
growing up, but our relationship grew deeper during my college years. I was able to spend more time with him and
at an older age, had a much deeper appreciation for him, the life lessons he taught
me and the stories he shared with me.
My
grandpa passed away February 12th, 2014, fourteen days shy of his 94th
birthday. One of my favorite ways to honor
him during his birthday month is by making and enjoying one of his favorite
foods, beer cheese soup.
To say my grandpa was a fan of a good beer would be an understatement so it’s
no surprise that he enjoyed a soup consisting of beer. 😊 You also can’t go wrong with cheese! He
would also make sure he topped his bowl off with a heaping pile of popcorn, for
good measure!
Below is the recipe we use in our household!
Is there recipe that holds a special place in your heart?
Beer Cheese Soup
½ cup minced onion
½ cup unsalted butter
2/3 cup flour
1 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp paprika
1/8 tsp cayenne
1 tsp salt
14 oz. chicken broth
4 cups whole milk
1 can/bottle (12 oz) beer (Killeans Red is good!)
3 cups (12 oz) finely shredded, sharp cheddar cheese
In a large pan, cook onion in butter till soft. Blend in flour and seasonings; gradually stir in broth, milk and beer. Cook over medium heat, STIRRING CONSTANTLY, TILL MIXTURE COMES TO A BOIL AND THICKENS.
Add cheese, stirring and heating till smooth.
To serve: ladle into soup cups or bowls. Garnish with freshly popped popcorn or croutons. (Rye or pumpernickel)
