Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Prosciutto - Prosciutto Di Parma

Ingredients

• 4 slices Prosciutto di Parma, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 fresh sage sprigs
• 2 gala apples, peeled, cored and chopped, about 2 cups
• 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded and chopped, about 5 cups
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped, about 1/2 cup
• 1 medium onion, chopped, about 1/2 cup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1/2 cup ale beer
• 1 cup grated extra sharp cheddar cheese