Beer and Cheddar Soup with Smoked Ham
Wisconsin Beer and Cheddar Soup, Done Right
A Wisconsin classic built the right way — Jones Dry Aged Bacon rendered crispy, Jones Naturally Smoked Ham diced and folded in, and a rich roux-based cheddar and pilsner broth strained smooth and finished with heavy cream. This is the kind of soup that earns a permanent spot on a fall and winter menu.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Jones Dairy Farm Dry Aged Bacon, diced small
- 2 cups water
- 8 ounces onion, diced
- 8 ounces butter, unsalted
- 10 ounces all-purpose flour
- 1 gallon chicken broth
- 16 ounces pilsner-style beer
- 16 ounces heavy cream
- 2 pounds sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 pounds Jones Dairy Farm Naturally Smoked Ham, medium diced
- salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Place cubed bacon and water in pan and slowly bring to a boil. This will render most of fat out of bacon. When water evaporates, only fat will remain. Allow bacon to fry in fat until crispy. Drain and set aside.
Sweat onion and garlic in butter on medium-low heat until onion is clear and tender. Season. Do not allow onion or garlic to gain any brown color.
Once ready, add flour in four batches, stirring constantly. Once fully incorporated, allow to cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring often.
Add COLD chicken broth slowly, being sure to whisk out any clumps. Once fully incorporated, allow to simmer for about one hour over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Strain through a chinoise (fine mesh colander) into another pot. Add beer once a high simmer is reached. Allow alcohol to cook out for about 10 minutes. Add cream slowly, constantly stirring vigorously. Remove from heat.
Add cheese in eight batches, stirring constantly. Season. Add diced ham and ladle into bowls. Sprinkle with crispy bacon pieces. Makes 1.5 gallons.
This recipe features
Country Club Boneless Slicing Ham
This recipe features
Raw Cherrywood Smoked Bacon – 9/11
This recipe features
Raw Cherrywood Smoked Bacon – 14/18
This recipe features
Country Club Boneless Slicing Ham
This recipe features
Raw Cherrywood Smoked Bacon – 9/11
This recipe features
Raw Cherrywood Smoked Bacon – 14/18
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