broccoli cheese soup

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

1 medium onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1/2 cup butter

 2 cups carrots, grated

1 lb broccoli, chopped

1/2 cup flour

1 quart half and half

1 quart chicken stock  
salt and pepper, to taste

 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 lb of bacon, crumbled (optional)

Directions

1. Saute onion in butter. When onions are golden, stir in garlic and cook for 3 more minutes. Set aside.
2. In another pan melt the 1/2 cup of butter and stir the butter and flour (make a roux) using a whisk over med. heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and slowly add the half-and-half. Add the chicken stock whisking all the time. Simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, carrots and onions. Cook over low heat till veggies are tender for 20-25 minutes. Add salt and pepper.
4. Blend using an immersion blender.
5. When the soup is the consistency you like add the grated cheese and stir till well blended.
6. Top with crumbled bacon and extra cheddar if you would like.