Broccoli Cheese Soup

Image courtesy Alaina Head

1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 medium chopped onion
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups half-and-half cream
2 cups chicken stock
1/2 lb fresh broccoli
1 cup carrot, julienned
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese
salt and pepper
Directions
1Sauté onion in butter. Set aside.
2Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and add the half & half.
3Add the chicken stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4Add the broccoli, carrots and onions. Cook over low heat 20-25 minutes.
5Add salt and pepper. Can be puréed in a blender for smoother texture. Return to heat and add cheese. Stir in nutmeg.

(Recipe courtesy Alaina Head via Panera Bread)
You can substitute milk for 1/2 and 1/2 and omit the nutmeg if you don't have any on hand!