Broccoli-Cheddar Soup

1/4 cup flour or cornstarch
2 tbsp. olive oil
4 cups chicken broth, low sodium
1 lb. frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

1. In a frying pan, heat your oil, but don’t let it get so hot it smokes.
2. Using a whisk, whisk in the flour a little at a time so that the flour and oil mix well and start to bubble.
3. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, and then remove from heat.
4. Pour the mixture into your slow cooker and add the thawed broccoli.
5. Add salt to taste, black pepper and garlic, stir to combine.
6. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the broccoli is completely cooked.
7. Stir in the cheese, 1 cup at a time, allowing it to melt completely before adding the next cup of cheese.