Cheddar Cheese Soup

3 Tbs (45 ml) butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
2 Tbs (30 ml) all-purpose flour
3 cups (750 ml) chicken stock
2 cups (500 ml) half-and-half
3 Tbs (45 ml) dry sherry (optional)
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Cayenne pepper to taste (optional)
12 oz (335 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Heat the butter in a large soup pot over moderate heat and saute the chopped vegetables until tender but not brown, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the flour and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes. Whisk in the chicken stock and half-and-half and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3 minutes.

Remove from the heat and stir in the optional sherry, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Add the cheese a little at a time, whisking constantly until the cheese has melted.

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped chives if desired.

Note: When reheating leftovers, bring the soup barely to a simmer over low heat. Do not boil as the cheese will separate.

Servings: 4 to 6