Natal Day Celebrations

June was Pablo's birthday month, and we celebrated with a quiet supper at home.



On the menu? His favorite, Broccoli Cheese Soup.



The recipe is modified from the Panera recipe, and I can't say that I've ever tasted a better version of this soup!



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~ Broccoli Cheese Soup ~

Serves 4

- 1 TBSP melted butter
- 1/2 medium chopped onion
- 1/4 C melted butter
- 1/4 C flour
- 2 C half-and-half
- 2 C chicken stock
- 1/2 lb. fresh broccoli (cut the florets into bite sized pieces; grate the stalk)
- 1 C matchstick carrots
- 8 oz grated sharp cheddar cheese (Pablo says 8 ounces is the minimum!)
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and Pepper

1. Saute onion in butter. Set aside.

2. Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Stir constantly and add half-and-half

3. Add the chicken stock. Simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Add the broccoli, carrots, and onions. Cook over low heat 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add cheese, stirring until melted. Stir in nutmeg. Salt and pepper to taste.

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And no birthday would be complete without dessert!



Pablo's dessert of choice is apple pie a la mode -- this time I discovered that cooking the apples beforehand makes for a much softer and juicier filling.



Many Happy Returns of the Day to the best of husbands, and the best of friends!