1 1/2 c. chicken broth
2 c. broccoli, chopped
1/2 tsp. thyme
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. white pepper
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
1 c. milk
1 sm. bay leaf
Dash garlic powder
3 or 4 slices American cheese (optional)

In a saucepan, mix chicken broth, broccoli, thyme, bay leaf and garlic powder. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove bay leaf. Place half of mixture in a blender or food processor; cover and blend 30 to 60 seconds, until smooth. Repeat with remaining mixture. In same saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour, salt and pepper. Add milk, all at once. Cook and stir until thick and bubbly. Stir in vegetable mixture and cheese. Cook and stir soup until heated thoroughly. Season to taste with salt and pepper.