ACTUAL PANERA BREAD RECIPE FOR HEARTY CHEESE SOUP IN A SOURDOUGH

Steps:

• In a large, heavy stockpot, melt butter or margarine.
• Add chopped vegetables.
• Add ham or bacon.
• Cook over medium heat until vegetables are slightly tender (about 10 minutes).
• Stir in flour.
• Stir in cornstarch.
• Cook, stirring constantly (about 3 minutes).
• Add broth and continue stirring until slightly thickened.
• Add milk.
• Add spices.
• Add cheese gradually, stirring until cheese is melted.
• To avoid curdling, do not allow soup to boil after cheese is added.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Serve piping hot in the hollowed out Sourdough bread bowls.