Broccoli Cheese Soup

Skinny Broccoli Cheese Soup

I don't know if something with 2 cups of cheese can be called skinny, but it's definitely skinny compared to most versions!

-3 Tbsp butter
-1 onion, diced
-1/4 c flour
-2 c fat-free half and half
-3 c chicken or veggie broth
-2 bay leaves
-1/4 tsp nutmeg
-1 tsp salt
-1/2 tsp pepper
-1/8 tsp cayenne
-5 c broccoli, cut into bite size chunks
-2 carrots, diced
-2 c cheddar cheese

Melt butter in large pot over medium heat.  Saute onion until tender, about 5 minutes.  Sprinkle in flour.  Cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.  Pour in broth and half and half, stirring constantly.  Add bay, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.  Simmer 20 minutes.  Add broccoli and carrot, cover and simmer an additional 20 minutes.  Remove bay leaves and puree soup (using an immersion blender, blender, or food processor.  Return soup to low heat, stir in cheese until melted.  Serve.