Cream of Broccoli Soup

Ingredients:

1-1/2 pounds broccoli, chopped
2 c water
1 large celery stalk, chopped (3/4 c)
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 c)
2 T butter
2 T flour
2-1/2 c chicken broth
1/2 t salt
1/8 t pepper
Dash of nutmeg
1/2 c heavy whipping cream
1 T Worcestershire sauce
Shredded Cheese, optional

Instructions: Heat water in 3-quart saucepan. Add broccoli, celery and onion. Bring to a boil, then simmer 10 minutes. Do not drain. Place in blender; blend until smooth. Set aside.

Melt butter in 3-quart saucepan. Stir in flour until smooth. Cook, stirring continually, until mixture is smooth and bubbly. Remove from heat, add broth. Heat to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil and stir 1 minute.

Stir in broccoli mixture, salt, pepper, nutmeg and Worcestershire sauce. Heat just to boiling. Stir in whipping cream. Heat just until hot. Do not boil or soup may curdle.

Garnish with shredded cheese or whipping cream. Serve.

Note: Jirah, I know you hate celery, but don't skip it in this recipe.