CloneBoss Ingredients Soup Ingredients: ¼ cup butter, cubed ½ cup chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 8 ounces) 1 large carrot, finely chopped 3 cups chicken stock 2 cups half-and-half cream 2 bay leaves ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ cup cornstarch ¼ cup water or additional chicken stock 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese Optional: 6 small round bread loaves (about 8 ounces each) for bread bowls Toppings: Crumbled cooked bacon, additional shredded cheddar cheese, ground nutmeg, and pepper — Instructions 1. Prepare the Soup: In a 6-quart stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until tender, about 6-8 minutes. Add broccoli, carrot, chicken stock, half-and-half cream, bay leaves, salt, nutmeg, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until vegetables are tender. 2. Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water or additional chicken stock until smooth. Gradually stir into the soup. Bring the soup back to a boil, stirring occasionally, and cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Remove bay leaves. 3. Add the Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. — 4. Optional Bread Bowls: If using bread loaves, cut a slice off the top of each loaf and hollow out the inside, leaving ¼-inch-thick shells. Save the removed bread for another use (e.g., croutons). Fill the bread bowls with the soup just before serving. — 5. Serve: Serve hot with optional toppings like crumbled bacon, additional shredded cheese, nutmeg, or pepper. — Pro Tip: To add extra depth of flavor, roast the broccoli and carrots before adding them to the soup. Perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings!
