Parmesan Artichoke Soup

INGREDIENTS

• 4 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup finely chopped carrot
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1-1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cartons (32 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 quart heavy whipping cream
• 1-1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (7-1/2 ounces) marinated quartered artichoke hearts, drained and coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (not packed in oil), chopped

DIRECTIONS

In a large saucepan, saute the celery, onion and carrot in butter until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in the flour, thyme, salt and pepper until blended; gradually add broth. Add bay leaves. Bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Reduce heat; whisk in the cream, cheese, artichokes and tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil. Simmer, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes or until flavors are blended. Discard bay leaves. Yield: 12 servings (3 quarts).

from: https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/parmesan-artichoke-soup