4 c. water
2 c. chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
2 c. chopped ham
1 medium onion, chopped
1 medium potato, chopped
3 tbsp. butter
1-1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 chicken flavored bouillon cube
1/2 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. milk
grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Combine first 11 ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes or until broccoli is tender, stirring occasionally. Spoon a third of the broccoli mixture into electric blender. Blend 20 seconds. Repeat until all ingredients have been blended. Pour mixture back into pot. Stir in milk and simmer 20 minutes. Garnish each serving with cheese, if desired.