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

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

To serve, place about 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese in bottom of bowls. Ladle soup on top of cheese and serve. Serves 8 as a first course.