PANERA BREAD BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP

Panera Bread Broccoli Cheddar Soup image

Provided by Kevin Anthony

Time 1h5m

Number Of Ingredients 12

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6 Tbsp unsalted butter
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 c all-purpose flour
2 c half-and-half
3 c low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1/4 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
4 7-inch sourdough bread boules (round loaves)
4 c broccoli florets (about 1 head)
1 large carrot, diced
2 1/2 c (about 8 ounces) grated sharp white and yellow cheddar cheese, plus more for garnish

Steps:

1. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Whisk in the flour and cook until golden, 3 to 4 minutes, then gradually whisk in the half-and-half until smooth. Add the chicken broth, bay leaves and nutmeg, then season with salt and pepper and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, uncovered, until thickened, about 20 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the bread bowls: Using a sharp knife, cut a circle into the top of each loaf, leaving a 1-inch border all around. Remove the bread top, then hollow out the middle with a fork or your fingers, leaving a thick bread shell.
3. Add the broccoli and carrot to the broth mixture and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. Puree the soup in...http://restaurant.recipes-network.net/panera-bread-broccoli-cheddar-soup.html