1 1/2 lb. Broccoli
2 c. Water
1 large Celery Stalk
1 medium Onion, Chopped
2 tbsp. Butter
2 tbsp. Flour
2 1/2 c. Chicken Broth
1/2 tsp. Salt
1/2 tsp. Pepper
1/2 c. Whipping Cream
Shredded Cheese (optional)

Remove flowerets from broccoli. Set aside. Cut stalks into 1 inch pieces. Heat water to boiling. Add broccoli, celery and onion. Cover and heat until boiling. Simmer until broccoli is tender. Do not drain. Put broccoli mixture in blender. Cover and blend on medium until smooth. Melt butter in a 3 quart saucepan over medium heat, stir in flour. Cook, stirring constantly until mixture is smooth and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in chicken broth. Heat until boiling and stir in whipping cream. Heat until soup is hot. Do not boil, Soup may curdle.