

Rich and creamy, Carmody makes this soup a crowd pleaser as a starter or satisfying meal. We reach for a favorite ale from our local Sonoma brewery, but Guinness is good too.
Serves 4-6
Wash leeks well in a bowl of cold water and drain in a colander.
In a 4-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat, melt butter. Add leeks, carrots, celery, and garlic, stirring occasionally until vegetables begin to soften and lightly brown, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to moderate and sprinkle flour over vegetables to make a roux, then cook, stirring for 3 minutes. Add beer and cook for 5 minutes. Whisk in milk and broth and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper and cook until slightly bubbling. Off the heat, add Carmody cheese by handfuls, stirring until cheese is melted, 3 to 4 minutes. Adjust seasonings and add hot sauce to taste. To serve, spoon into bowls and sprinkle with crumbled bacon.