Broccoli & Mushroom Chowder

Great for a starter dish!

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 8

Ingredients

• 2  lbs fresh broccoli
• 1⁄2 cup water
• 1  cup butter or 1  cup margarine
• 1  cup flour
• 4  cups chicken broth
• 4  cups half-and-half
• 8  ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1⁄4 teaspoon tarragon leaf, crushed

Directions

1. Cut the broccoli into 1/2 inch pieces.
2. Steam in water until crisp yet tender, do not drain. Set aside.
3. In a large pan over medium heat, melt butter and then add flour, Cook stirring constantly, for 2 - 4 minutes. Do not Brown. Stir in chicken stock broth and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low, add half-and-half, mushrooms, broccoli and seasonings to the liquid.
4. Heat through but do not boil. Serve immediately.