Tia's Broccoli, Potato And Carrot Cheese Soup

Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins Preparation Time: 40 mins Cook Time: 1 hr

Ingredients

• Servings: 8
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup flour
• 4 cups half-and-half (or combination of both, heated in the microwave) or 4 cups skim milk (or combination of both, heated in the microwave)
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 lb frozen broccoli, heads thawed
• 3 cups carrots, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, more if desired
• 16 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• black pepper, ground
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes, microwave till al dente in a bowl of water
• 1 tablespoon lea & perrins worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon pickapeppa sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 3 -4 dashes paprika, hot several shakes
• 3 -4 dashes old bay seasoning, several shakes
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives (or more) (optional)

Recipe

• 1 saute garlic, onions and carrots in butter.
• 2 add flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. stir constantly and add the half and half a little at a time till incorporated.
• 3 add the chicken stock.
• 4 add the potatoes.
• 5 add the seasonings.
• 6 simmer till carrots and onions are cooked. (45 mins or more).
• 7 add the broccoli and simmer 10 minutes.
• 8 remove with slotted spoon about half of the veggies and set aside.
• 9 with an emulsion blender or blender, blend remaining broth and veggies till fairly smooth.
• 10 return veggies set aside and stir.
• 11 taste for seasoning. at this point i usually add a bit more nutmeg (we love the flavor in this soup!) and maybe a bit more paprika!
• 12 add cheese and warm through.
• 13 serve with fresh chives if desired,warm crusty bread and a salad!