LUSCIOUS HAM AND CHEDDAR CHEESE SOUP

3 T. olive oil
2 carrots, cut into ½” pieces
2 celery ribs, cut into ½” pieces
2 shallots, mined
1 T. minced garlic
1 lb. ham steak, trimmed and cut into ½” pieces
1 (12-oz.) can beer
1 T. flour
1 c. half and half
1 (14.5-oz.) can chicken broth
½ c. uncooked rice
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
3 T. chopped fresh parsley
Salt, black pepper, Tabasco to taste
Extra grated cheese to garnish
1. In large pot, heat olive oil.
2. Add carrots, celery, shallots and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally until soft.
3. Add ham, cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
4. Add beer and cook another 5 minutes.
5. Stir in flour into half and half. Make sure it is smooth, no lumps.
6. Stir into the soup.
7. Add broth and bring to a boil.
8. Add rice.
9. Reduce heat and simmer until rice is just tender, about 20 minutes.
10. Stir in cheese, parsley and seasoning to taste.
11. Cook, stirring occasionally, until smooth.
12. Ladle into soup bowls and top with additional grated cheese, if desired.
*****About 4-6 servings, depending on size of bowl.