Skinny Beer Cheese Soup

I don't think I know anyone that doesn't let out a little moan upon the mention of Cheddar Ale soup. The smokiness, that hint of hops, the sharp cheddar bite all swirled into a creamy, cheesy soup - that is definitely not on the "lighter fare" menu. 

Luckily, there is hope out there for those of us who dream of the soup, but know that the mere thought of downing a bowl of it would add 5 lbs to our hips. I came across a recipe in my Daily Buzz email that peaked my interest. It's not soup season per se, but I can't wait to make this, and just can't contain my excitement to wait to share. 

The Recipe

Skinny Beer Cheese Soup

Recipe is courtesy of The Two Bite Club

Ingredients:

4 1/2 cups fat free chicken broth, divided
1 1/4 cups potato, peeled and cubed
2 tsp butter
1/2 cup each of onion, celery, and carrots, all finely diced {Tidbit: this mixture is called mirepoix}
1 tsp garlic, minced
1/2 cup flour
2 1/2 cups 1% milk
5 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp dry mustard
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp each S+P
12 oz beer

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, simmer 2 cups of chicken broth and the potato for 15 minutes or until the potato is tender.  Transfer the potato mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. *Note* you should remove the center piece of the top so that the steam can escape. You can use a dish towel to avoid splatter.  Set the blended mixture aside.
2. In a large dutch oven, melt the butter oven medium heat.  Add the mirepoix to the pan and saute for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining broth, and milk. Add this to the dutch oven and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly with a whisk.  
4. Add the potato mixture, shredded cheese, dry mustard, Worcestershire, S+P to the soup.  Stir constantly for one more minute (until the cheese melts).  
5. Add the beer to the soup and bring to a simmer.  Simmer for 15 minutes.

Nutritional Info:

>> This recipe has appx 200 calories in a 1 cup serving. 

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Laugh much,

cook often,

and always 

wear stilettos

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