Have a great time in the kitchen & watch some Bama football!

Cream of Broccoli Soup

2 Bunches Broccoli, chopped
1 med. onion, chopped
3 ribs celery, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
4 small or 2 big potatoes, peeled & diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup flour
3 cups half and half, room temp
4 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp. garlic powder
sea salt
pepper

In a pan with a steamer basket, steam the broccoli with 2 cups water for about 5 minutes.  Reserve the water for use in the soup.

In a large soup pot, melt butter and saute the onions, carrots & celery for 3 to 5 minutes.  Add the flour and stir together.  Cook for another 2 minutes over medium heat. 

Slowly add the liquid from the steaming broccoli, stirring constantly.

Add broccoli, potatoes and remaining ingredients.  Stir well.  Cook over very low heat for 1-1/2 to 2 hours, stirring often to prevent scorching.

Enjoy with some garlic bread.