Broccoli Soup

Well, after that last post, there was a fight in our fridge. Seems that broccoli felt a bit bent out of shape and cauliflower getting all the attention. And so, to make peace within the cruciferous family, here is my absolutely favorite broccoli recipe, via my never-forgotten Grandma Pete:

Grandma Pete's Broccoli Cheese Soup 
(makes enough for 8-10 people)

• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 3 Tablespoons onion, chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 12-oz package frozen broccoli OR 1 head fresh broccoli, chopped and steamed (I use the Ziploc steam bags)
• 8-oz package wavy wide egg noodles
• 6 cup milk
• pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound Velveeta, chopped

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan.
2. Add onions and saute until translucent.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add the noodles and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the broccoli:
• If using frozen broccoli, add it and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. 
• If using fresh broccoli, steam it in the microwave.  Add it to the saucepan and immediately go to the next step.
6. Add the milk, pepper, and garlic powder. Reduce heat to low.
7. Add the Velveeta and cook until cheese is melted, stirring occasionally.