Favorite Garlic-Broccoli Soup

Directions

Drop unpeeled garlic cloves into boiling water for one minute (30 seconds for small cloves); remove from water, peel, and mince.

Cut broccoli into buds and stems, discarding woody portions.

Cook in boiling water until tender; remove and drain.

Melt butter in 2-quart saucepan.

When butter starts to bubble, add garlic, stirring rapidly for a few seconds.

Quickly add flour, salt, and pepper.

Stir constantly for one minute.

Add milk and broth, stirring briskly with a wire whisk until sauce is thickened.

In a blender or food processor, purée broccoli with a little sauce, adding remaining sauce until all of broccoli is blended.

Correct seasonings to taste and thin with half-and- half to the desired consistency.

Serve sprinkled with Hungarian sweet paprika if desired.

NOTE: This rich and creamy soup has excellent garlic flavor.

It is better the second day and may be served cold as well as hot.