Name: Cream of Broccoli Soup
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 cups broccoli florets (about1 1/4 pounds); 2 cups low-salt chicken broth; 1 cup plus 4 teaspoons whipping cream; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; Ground white pepper

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Chef Ludovic LeFebvre writes: "I'm looking forward to the opening of my restaurant, Ludo, this fall. It's going to be different from the elaborate French cuisine I've done in the past: People are interested in lighter and healthier foods now, and I want my cooking to reflect that. For me, that means using the best ingredients in simple ways.

"Before coming to America, I apprenticed with some of France's best chefs, like Marc Meneau and Alain Passard. I was lucky to have such great teachers, but after two years of working 17-hour days, it was time for a change. Moving to Los Angeles definitely altered my work habits. My days in the kitchen are shorter, and there's more opportunity to enjoy cooking at home."

This rich and creamy soup is elegant enough for company.

Recipe information

Yield
Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

8 cups broccoli florets (about1 1/4 pounds)

2 cups low-salt chicken broth

1 cup plus 4 teaspoons whipping cream

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

Ground white pepper

Preparation

Step 1
Cook broccoli in large pot of boiling salted water until tender but still bright green, about 5 minutes. Drain broccoli. Set aside 4 small florets for garnish.
Step 2
Combine broth and 1 cup cream in heavy large saucepan and bring to boil. Working in batches, puree broccoli, broth mixture, and butter in blender until smooth, about 45 seconds per batch. Return puree to same pan. Season soup to taste with salt and white pepper. (Soup can be made up to 8 hours ahead. Cool slightly, cover, and refrigerate.)
Step 3
Bring soup to simmer, thinning with water if desired. Ladle soup into 4 bowls. Drizzle 1 teaspoon cream over each; garnish with reserved florets.