1 bunch broccoli
1 stick butter
1/2 med. onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 c. flour
4 c. chicken broth
2 c. half & half
6 bay leaves
1/2 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. salt
2 c. Swiss cheese, grated

Steam broccoli for 10 minutes. Chop. Saute chopped onion in butter until tender, about 10 minutes. Add flour and mix. Slowly add chicken broth and half and half. Add salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves and simmer slowly for 5 minutes. Add chopped broccoli and parsley and simmer slowly for 15 minutes.

TO SERVE: Place about 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese in the bottom of bowls. Serves 8 as a first course.