BROCCOLI SOUP WITH CHEDDAR CRUST

Broccoli is a great source of vitamins and nutrients for the body. It is also rich in dietary fiber, minerals, anti oxidants. Try this special flavor quick and easy broccoli soup with cheddar crust. Tasty and delicious.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

6 tbsp. butter room temperature

½ kilo fresh broccoli stems and florets are separated

     and chopped into bite sized pieces

1 large onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. chopped fresh tarragon or ½ tsp. dried

6 ½ chicken stock

1 cup whipping cream

3 tbsp.  All Purpose Flour

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cup grated cheese

PROCEDURE:

1. Melt 3 tbsp. butter in a heavy sauce pot over medium heat.

2. Add broccoli stems and onion, sauté until onion is translucent, about 6 minutes.

3. Add garlic and tarragon.

4. Sauté 1 minute.

5. Add stock, bring to a boil.

6. Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in cream.

7. Mix remaining 3 tbsp. butter with flour in a small bowl to make paste.

8. Whisk paste into soup.

9. Add broccoli florets.

10. Simmer until soup thickens and florets are tender, stirring frequently about 5 minutes.

11. Cool slightly, season with salt and pepper to serve.

12. Pre-heat broiler.

13. Place oven proof bowls on baking sheet.

14. Divide soup among bowls.

15. Sprinkle 1/3 cup cheese over each.

16. Broil until cheese melts and bubbles are around edges, about 4 minutes.