Recipe: Hoppy Cheddar Cheese Sauce

Whether you're dipping pretzels or slathering this sauce on a burger or sandwich, this sauce pairs nicely with an IPA, like Northern Lights or King of Hop.

Ingredients

• 4 oz. Cheddar Cheese, grated
• 4 tbsp. Heavy Cream
• ½ cup Water
• 2 tbsp. All-Purpose Flour
• 2 tbsp. Unsalted Butter
• 2 tbsp. Fresh Simcoe Hop Flowers
• Salt and Pepper

Preparation

In a small pot, melt the butter on medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and cook, whisking constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Gradually whisk in the water and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook, whisking frequently for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the cheese and cook, whisking constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the hop flowers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Crack open your favorite IPA and serve immediately on a sandwich or burger, or with pretzels (like these soft pretzels, courtesy of Drew's Brew Reviews)