Byerly's Famous Beer Cheese Soup

Photo Credit Parsley at Food.com

BaconSlut is at it again.  Chilly fall evenings usher in thoughts of (local grocery) Byerly's famous beer cheese soup for those living in these parts.  It is both comfort and joy in a bowl.  Add a crisp green side salad and some crusty bread, and a delicious dinner is done! Make 8 cups. 

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup minced onion

2/3 cup flour

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1 teaspoon paprika

1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1 (10 3/4 oz. can) chicken broth

4 cups whole milk

1 (12 oz.) can of beer  (Byerly's uses local Summit Pilsner)

3 cups freshly and finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese  (Byerly's uses local Land O' Lakes)

popcorn (for garnish)

Melt butter in large kettle; saute onion until soft.

Blend in flour and seasonings, and gradually stir in broth, milk, and beer.  Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil; boil and stir one minute.

Stir in cheese (do this slowly, in small batches, making sure all of the cheese is melted before adding additional  cheese).  Heat and stir until smooth.  Garnish with popcorn.