Cream Of Broccoli Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 medium carrot, scraped and chopped
1 rib celery, chopped
1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
1 small potato, peeled and chopped fine
2 bay leaves
4 c. chicken stock/broth
1 large head broccoli, stems removed, or 20 oz. pkg. frozen chopped broccoli
1 1/2 c. light cream, scalded
white pepper

Preparation

Combine first 6 ingredients in large saucepan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 25 minutes.
Add the broccoli to the saucepan and boil for 20 minutes, covered.
Using food processor or blender, whirl the mixture 2 cupfuls at a time until smooth.
Return mixture to saucepan, combine with the cream and bring soup to serving temperature.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
May be served with croutons and/or grated Cheddar cheese.