Indulge in the cozy comforts of winter with a steaming bowl of Cream of Broccoli Soup, masterfully crafted with sharp cheddar cheese and smoky ham. 🥦🧀🍖 Each spoonful harmonizes flavors that warm the soul during chilly days. Dive into this velvety delight and savor the essence of comfort in every bite! 🍵❤️

Ingredients:

• 1 head of broccoli
• 1/2 stick of butter
• 1/2 lb. diced ham
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 5 cloves of minced garlic
• 2 quarts of chicken stock
• 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream
• 1 block of sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1 sprig of thyme
• 1 sprig of oregano
• Salt
• Pepper
• Crusty bread for garnish

Directions:

1. Trim the florets from the head of broccoli and set them aside. Trim the stems into 1-inch pieces. For the tougher part of the stalk, peel the exterior layer and use the tender inside. Keep the stems and florets separate.
2. In a heavy pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Brown the diced ham, then remove it from the pan.
3. In the same pan, sauté the diced onion in the remaining butter until it turns soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken stock and add the broccoli stems. Simmer for approximately 30 minutes until the stems become tender. For a creamier consistency, consider using an immersion blender to puree the soup base (optional but recommended).
5. Add the browned ham, broccoli florets, and heavy cream to the pot. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Continue to simmer until the broccoli florets are soft and the soup reaches your desired consistency. If the soup is too thin, you can create a slurry of cornstarch and water and add it gradually until the desired thickness is achieved.
6. Remove the soup from heat and stir in half of the grated cheese, along with the oregano and thyme sprigs.
7. Serve the creamy soup garnished with crusty bread and a generous sprinkle of remaining cheese on top.

This Cream of Broccoli Soup is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, offering a warm embrace during cold winter days. Savor each spoonful as you delight in the rich, smoky, and cheesy goodness. 🍽️🌬️🧡