Wisconsin Beer & Cheddar Dip - Two Ways

Directions

1. Heat oil in large saute pan over medium heat, then add the onions. Cook stirring occasionally until softened, then add the kosher salt. Continue cooking, scraping the bottom of the pan stirring occasionally until the onions are nicely caramelized. Add garlic and saute, stirring continuously for about a minute, or until the garlic is fragrant. Add the beer, and raise the heat to medium - high. Cook until the beer and onion mixture is reduced to about 3/4 cup, then remove from heat and let cool for 5 or so minutes.
2. Place onion mixture into the work bowl of your food processor, with the cutting blade attachment. Add the mustard, cayenne, pepper, horseradish, and Worcestershire. Pulse to combine into a coarse purée. Add sour cream and cheddar, then pulse to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Stir or pulse in scallions. Transfer to serving dish and sprinkle with reserved green scallion. Serve with crudités, pita chips, or bread sticks.
3. Hot Option: Shred an additional 4 oz of extra sharp cheddar. Mix about 3/4 of the cheese with 1 tablespoon corn starch, then stir into the dip mixture. Transfer to a 1 & 1/2 to 2 quart casserole dish, then sprinkle top with remaining cheese. Bake at 400º F until edges are nicely brown and bubbling, and cheese on top is melted approximately 14 to 18 minutes. Sprinkle with reserved green onion. Serve fondue style with crusty bread, bread sticks, blanched cauliflower, or for a very Wisconsin experience some sliced cooked bratwurst.