Broccoli Soup Bread Bowls

This beautiful Cream of Broccoli Soup dish is suitable for a cozy dinner for two, and all it needs is a fruit cup to go with it!

Serves 2.

Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp butter (divided use)
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 2 c chicken style vegetarian broth
• 4 c small broccoli florets
• (2) 6 oz French bread bowls*
• 2 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 1/2 c whole milk
• 2 c shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large heavy pot over medium low. Add onion and celery; saute 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and broccoli; stir. Bring to a simmer, cover, and simmer 12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. Remove from burner.
4. Slice the top off the bread loaves and scoop out the insides to 1/2 inch shell. Place on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven 10-12 minutes while finishing soup.
5. In a small saucepan over medium low, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Add flour and stir until bubbly. Add the milk and whisk until it thickens and simmers one minute.
6. Add cheese and stir until melted. Pour this creamy mixture into the pot of broccoli and blend well.
7. Serve soup in prepared bread bowl and add a bit more shredded cheese to the tops if desired.

*Note: Most supermarkets now carry these bread bowls in their bakery department.