Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
03 - ½ teaspoon sea salt.
04 - Freshly ground black pepper.
05 - 3 garlic cloves, chopped.
06 - ¼ cup all-purpose flour.
07 - 2 cups whole milk or unsweetened almond milk.
08 - 2 cups vegetable broth.
09 - 3 cups chopped broccoli florets.
10 - 1 large carrot, julienned or finely chopped.
11 - ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard.
12 - 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese.
13 - Homemade croutons, optional.

# Instructions:

01 - Melt butter in large pot over medium heat. Cook onion with salt and pepper for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
02 - Sprinkle in flour and whisk 1-2 minutes until golden. Slowly add milk while whisking continuously.
03 - Add broth, broccoli, carrot, and mustard. Simmer 15-20 minutes until broccoli is tender.
04 - Gradually add cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season to taste and serve with optional croutons.

# Notes:

01 - Can use almond milk instead of whole milk.
02 - Best served with crusty bread or croutons.
03 - Add cheese gradually for smooth melting.