2 cups water
4 cups chopped fresh broccoli (about 1-1/2 pounds)
1 cup chopped carrots
1 rib chopped celery
1/2-1 cup finely chopped onion
6 tablespoons butter or margarine
6 tablespoons flour
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon thyme
In Dutch oven or soup kettle, bring water to boil. Add broccoli, carrots, and celery; boil 2-3 minutes. Drain; set vegetables aside. In the same kettle, saute onion in butter until tender. Stir in flour to form a smooth paste. Gradually add the broth and milk, stirring constantly. Bring to boil; boil and stir 1 minute. Add vegetables. Stir in parsley, salt and thyme. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors are combined.