Beer and Brat Cheese Soup

Directions:                    

1. In a medium pot, simmer bratwurst in beer, until fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Remove bratwurst and set aside.
2. Continue cooking until beer is reduced by half, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. In a medium pot, heat butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add garlic and crushed red pepper, cook for 2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and whisk to create a roux. Cook until the roux has turned a light brown color, then whisk in cream and broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in salsa and return to simmer. Gently stir in cheese.
6. Slice the bratwurst into half moons and return to soup pot. Add Worcestershire, hot sauce and lemon juice.
7. Add reduced beer, stir until combined. Top with sour cream and serve.

TIP: When making cheese soup, never let the mixture boil. This will cause the mixture to break. If it appears to break, stir in 1 cup of sour cream to bring it back together.

Recipe Courtesy of Chef Scott, ALDI Test Kitchen