
Unexpected Cheddar, Broccoli & Potato Soup

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup mirepoix (dice celery, onion, carrots)
3 cloves minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon each minced fresh rosemary and thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound sliced potatoes
1 quart chicken broth
2 ounces cooked pancetta
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup half and half
2 cups broccoli, chopped small
2 cups shredded unexpected cheddar or any sharp white cheddar
Directions
Sauté carrots, celery, and onion in olive oil for a few minutes until translucent. Add in garlic, herbs, and seasoning and sauté another minute until fragrant
Add in potatoes and sauté a few more minutes. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce to medium, and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender
While the potatoes simmer, make the roux: In a separate pot, melt butter, whisk in flour, allow to cook a minute or so while continuously whisking. Whisk in milk and half & half. Simmer for a few minutes until it begins to thicken
Add broccoli to the soup, cover and cook an additional 5 minutes or so
Stir roux into soup until well combined. Stir in shredded cheddar. Add salt & pepper to taste if needed
Top with extra cheese & pancetta and serve!
