1 bunch broccoli (1 1/2 lb.)
3 tbsp. butter
1 med. apple, pared, cored, and thinly sliced
1 sm. onion (1 1/2 inch diameter) thinly sliced
4 c. clear, fat-free chicken broth
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

TOPPING:

Sour cream or creme fraiche
Minced chives or parsley

Clean broccoli, cut off floweretes and break into small clusters. Pare the fibrous covering from stalks and slice fairly thin. In a large kettle, cook onion and apple in 1 tablespoon butter until softened (about 10 minutes).

Add broth and broccoli and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes. Process in a blender in batches to desired texture. Reheat with salt and pepper. Serve with garnishes as desired. Makes 6 servings of a thick, low calorie soup.