Soul warming winter food......

beer cheese soup. 1/2 stick unsalted butter,1 1/2 cups finely chopped leeks white and pale green parts only about to mediun sized cut and cleaned full of sand,2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic, 1 bay leaf,1/2 cup all purpose flour,3 cups whole milk room temp, 2 cups chicken stock low sodium,1 bottle of amber beer your choice [berghoff], 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce,1 teaspoon mustard powder,1/4 teaspoon kosher salt,1/4 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper,2 cups freshly shredded chedder cheese[mild or sharp or half and half]. 2 cups freshly shredded swiss cheese,freshly popped popcorn for crutons. heat butter in a 8 to 10 qt stock pot over medium heat.add leeks,garlic,bay leaf cook stirring occasionally, until the leeks are tender about 6 minutes.decrease heat to medium low sprinkle the flour all over and cook 3 minutes, stirring often.slowly whisk in the milk 1 cup at a time, and cook whisking until smooth and fully thickened[it takes some time to thicken so dont rush].slowley add the broth and beer whisking constantley until fully incorparated.bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, whisking occasionaly from the bottom to prevent sticking and burning.remove and discard bay leaf.stir in the worcestershire,mustard,salt,and pepper.add the cheese by handful stirring constantly. cook over medium heat without boiling until cheese is melted,3 to 4 minutes.keep warm until ready to serve. stir well before serving and top with popcorn as needed. to reheat in microwave on medium power or on stove top .