Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Today was busy with work.  I am happy I had this quick soup planned.  Broccoli was 2 double bunches of fresh broccoli for only $4 this week!  I am doing a quick post because I still have a bit of work to do.

Broccoli and Cheese Soup
printable recipe

3 T. unsalted butter
1 c. of sliced and cleaned leeks, white only
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp white pepper
Pinch of nutmeg
1/2 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp. minced fresh thyme leaves
3 T. flour
3 c. chicken broth
4 c. chopped broccoli (you can substitute 1-16 oz. bag of frozen)
1/2 c. cream
1-1/4 c. shredded cheddar

Melt the butter in a heavy bottom pot.  Add the leeks, salt, pepper and nutmeg and cook, stirring until soft.

Add the garlic and  thyme, for less than a minute.

Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring until the mixture is well blended, about 2 minutes.

Slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly.  Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add the broccoli and cook about 15 minutes until tender (I popped mine in the microwave for 2 minutes to speed this up)

You have the option of making a smooth consistency with an immersion blender, or leave chunky if pressed for time!
Add the cream and simmer to heat through.

Add the cheese and stir until melted.

I served with a sprinkle of cayenne for a little punch.

I still have to clean up, so I am simply going to give this a thumbs up!