Arhive lunare September 2019

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped small
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (here’s my favorite chicken stock)
• 1 bay leaf
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
• 1 1/4 pounds broccoli or 4 cups broccoli florets and stems, chopped small
• 1 large carrot (about 6 ounces) or 2 slim ones, chopped tiny (1 cup)
• 8 ounces (about 2 1/2 cups) coarsely grated sharp cheddar cheese, plus a pinch extra for garnish

Melt the butter in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until tender, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook until golden, 3 to 4 minutes, then gradually whisk in the half-and-half until smooth...