Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Soul

This is real comfort food for me. Very warming on a cold day.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2  cups low sodium chicken broth
• 3  cups  chopped broccoli (, peeled stems included)
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped celery
• 2  tablespoons butter
• 4  tablespoons flour
•  salt, to taste
•  freshly ground black pepper, , to taste
• 4  cups low-fat milk (don't use skim, though)
• 1⁄2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring broth, broccoli (about 1 med. head will yield 3 cups chopped broccoli) and celery to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat and stir in flour, salt and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. With a whisk or wooden spoon, add milk gradually, beating constantly to prevent lumping.
6. (It will thicken like paste at first; keep beating in milk to thin it.) Bring to a boil.
7. If you want a smooth soup, puree broccoli in blender.
8. Now add broccoli mixture (smooth or chunky) into large saucepan with the milk.
9. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.
10. Serve immediately.