Ingredients

  • 12 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 leek, white and light green part only
  • 1 carrot, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 1 stalk celery, cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • salt & freshly ground black pepper
  • 12 cup all-purpose flour
  • 12 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 4 cups chicken stock or 4 cups prepared broth
  • 12 ounces bass ale or 12 ounces newcastle ale
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 14 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Method

  • Clean the leek and slice thinly.
  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  • Add the leek, carrot and celery and saute until softened, about 10 minutes.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Stir in the flour and mustard until incorporated and cook for about 1 minute.
  • Add the stock and ale and bring to a simmer over high heat.
  • Redice the heat to medium an dcook, whisking to break up any lumps of flour, until the mixture is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the cheeses and whisk constantly until nicely melted, 3-5 minutes longer.
  • Do not let boil.
  • Stir in the cayenne and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Taste and adjust the seasoning.
  • Ladle the soup into warmed bowls, garnish with the parsley, and serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese or garlic toasts.