Broccoli Cheese Soup for the Soul

DIRECTIONS

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