Appetizer Recipes : Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Ingredients :

1 head fresh broccoli, washed
One third cup butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
One third cup flour
2 cups half and half or light cream
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
One quarter cup green onions, chopped

Cut the florets off the stalk and into bite sized pieces. You can also peel the stalk, cut off the bottom inch or so and then cut the stalk into thin slices. Melt butter in a saucepan and saute broccoli, onion and garlic until tender. Combine flour and half and half or cream and stir until smooth. Gradually add to broccoli. Add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce and salt and pepper and stir until thickened. Add grated cheddar cheese and stir over low heat until cheese is melted. Serve warm with chopped green onions for garnish if desired.

Tips : Use low fat or fat free half and half, light chicken broth and low fat cheese.