Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

This is another great recipe found on pinterest.  It is originally from food.com.

Todd and I found a Panera in North Carolina and have loved that place ever since.  They have great sandwiches, bagels, bread, and soup too!

This soup was really really good!  In fact I had a kid ask for seconds!

Yummy and warm and perfect for a winter night!

Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup

(http://www.food.com/)

serves 4

• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 cups half-and-half cream
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 lb fresh broccoli (about 3-4 cups)
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 8 ounces (1 cup) grated sharp cheddar cheese (used medium)
• salt and pepper

Saute onion in 1 tbsp butter.  When softened and cooked set aside.

Using a whisk, combine 1/4 cup melted butter and flour.  Whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.  Next, add the half-and-half stirring constantly.

Add the chicken stock (I did water and bouillon).  Simmer for 20 minutes.

While the stock and cream are simmering, chop up your broccoli and julienne your carrots.  I looked up julienne and it looked like you cut the carrots into small sticks.  I did mine bite size sticks.

Once you have simmered for 20 minutes, add broccoli, carrots and onions.  Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes.

Add salt and pepper and cheese.  Stir in nutmeg and enjoy!