Beer Cheese Soup

This is a tasty cold weather soup that is perfect when paired with a toasted sandwich. And despite the recipe's length, it is very easy!

Cook until tender, not browned:
1/4 cup melted butter or 3 Tbsp. olive oil
1/4 cup diced celery
1/4 cup sliced carrots
1/4 cup chopped green pepper
1/4 cup diced onion

Blend in 6 Tbsp. flour

Gradually stir in:
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups fat free half & half
Stir until thickened (you can add flour or corn starch to help thicken)

Add:
1/4 tsp. pepper
14 oz. jar cheddar cheese spread (Cheese Whiz)
Stir until cheese is melted.

Add:
1-2 Tbsp. chopped pimentos
8-12 oz. light beer
1/2 tsp. salt
Heat to serving temperature.

Garnish with croutons (I like to make my own--my recipe can be found filed under the Salad label), popcorn or Goldfish.