Creamy Ham And Asparagus Soup Recipe

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups cut fresh asparagus (1-inch pieces)1 medium carrot, julienned2 tablespoons butter3 small onions, quartered2 tablespoons all-purpose flour1 cup milk1 cup chicken broth1 cup cubed fully cooked ham1 jar (2-1/2 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained1 cup half-and-half creamSalt and pepper to tasteGrated Parmesan cheese, optionalChopped fresh parsley, optional

Preparation

Place asparagus in a large saucepan with enough water to cover; cook until crisp-tender. Drain and set aside.

In a large heavy saucepan, saute carrot in butter for 3-5 minutes; add onions and saute 2 minutes longer or until tender. Stir in flour; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; boil and stir for 2 minutes. Add broth, ham, mushrooms and reserved asparagus. Reduce heat; add cream. Heat through but do not boil. Add salt and pepper. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.