BROCCOLI CHOWDER WITH CHEDDAR TOASTS

Broccoli Chowder with Cheddar Toasts image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 35m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

2 strips bacon, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon celery seed
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups milk
4 small red-skinned potatoes (about 6 ounces), scrubbed and quartered
1/2 head broccoli (about 10 ounces), broken into florets, stem peeled and sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 baguette, sliced into eight 1/4-inch-thick pieces
4 ounces Cheddar, cut into 8 thin slices

Steps:

Cook the bacon in the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat until it renders slightly, about 2 minutes. Add the onion, garlic and celery seed and cook until soft, about 4 minutes. Scatter the flour over the mixture and stir to coat. Gradually add the broth and the milk, whisking until smooth.
Add the potatoes and sliced broccoli stem; increase the heat to medium and simmer, covered, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add the broccoli florets and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Continue cooking, uncovered, at a rapid simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes; season with salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, position a rack in the upper part of the oven and preheat the broiler to high. Spread the mustard on each piece of baguette and top with a cheddar slice. Place on a baking sheet and broil until the cheese melts; serve with the soup.