Broccoli and Cheese Soup

[apollymi]

 Here it is, what you've been waiting for: my fabulous, bad-for-you-but-tastes-so-good broccoli & cheese soup! I would have posted this one sooner, but it's another of those that I have to cook (and therefore write down what I actually do) before I can post it.

Ingredients:

• 1 16-oz (1 lb) bag frozen broccoli
• 1.5 cups matchstick (finely cut) carrots
• 6 cups vegetable (or chicken) broth
• 3 Tbsp onion powder
• dash pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1.5 cup sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 bay leaf

Directions:
In a medium pot, cook broccoli according to package instructions. Drain well. Chop most of it finely but leaving some larger pieces.

In a large stockpot, combine broth, broccoli, carrots, onion powder, and bay leaf over high heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook 5 minutes. 

Add flour and mix until it is completely blended. Add heavy cream and blend. Remove bay leaf and discard; caution: this will be hot! Add cheese and stir until completely blended. Allow to simmer over low heat until it reaches the consistency you want.

Serve hot.

Can be added:
1/2 cup diced, cooked ham