Beer Cheese Soup

Ingredients

5 slices bacon chopped

3 tablespoons butter

1 small onion finely diced

1/2 cup diced carrots

1/2 cup diced celery

1/3 cup flour

3 cups chicken broth

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

1/4 teaspoon cayenne or to taste

12-ounce beer

16-ounce grated sharp cheddar cheese

1-1/2 cups salted popcorn for garnish cheese popcorn works great or you can use croutons in a pinch

Directions

1. Add bacon to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTE function. Cook and stir until bacon is crisp.
2. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Add butter, onion, carrots and celery to the bacon drippings and saute until slightly softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat.
5. Add broth to the pot and de-glaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Add pepper, mustard powder, cayenne and beer to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL, then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
8. Using the display panel select the MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 7 minutes.
9. When the time is up, perform a controlled release of the remaining pressure, watching out for any starchy spray.
10. Using an immersion blender (or high capacity blender), puree the vegetable mixture until smooth.
11. Gradually add cheese, stirring between each addition, until the mixture becomes thick and creamy.
12. Adjust seasonings. Top with bacon and popcorn and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

*The Manual and Pressure Cook buttons are interchangeable.

Prep Time:  10 minutes

Cook Time:  20 minutes

Serves:  6 to 8

By:  Chop Secrets