Spiced Ham and Cheese Chowder

Directions

1. Trim fennel bulb; discard root end and save some of the feathery top for garnish; finely chop and set aside. Quarter the bulb lengthwise; remove the core; chop (you should have about 1 1/2 cups)
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter; add fennel and leeks and saute, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes, or until fennel is very tender. Combine broth and flour; stir into onion mixture. Add milk, lemon peel, cinnamon and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes, or until mixture thickens.
3. Gradually stir in cheese; reduce heat to low; stir until cheese melts. Stir in ham and beer; heat through. To serve, ladle chowder into soup bowls. Sprinkle with chopped fennel leaves.