Cajun Broccoli & Tasso Cheese Bisque

Ingredients:
one-half cup vegetable oil
1 pound Tasso ham, cubed
1 cup chopped onion
three-quarter cup chopped red bell pepper
one-half cup chopped green bell pepper
one-half cup chopped celery
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 cup flour
8 cups chicken broth, heated
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 pound cheddar cheese
1 pound fresh broccoli,
cut into pieces
2 teaspoons Boo Boo’s Cajun Shaker Seasoning
one-half teaspoon white pepper
one quarter cup minced parsley
one quarter cup chopped green onions
Directions:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepot over medium heat. Add tasso ham and cook for 5 minutes. Be careful not to brown it.
2. Add onion, red and green bell pepper, celery and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour and stir until a roux is formed. Do not brown flour. Then add the heated chicken broth and whip until a light sauce is formed. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, broccoli, Boo Boo’s seasoning and white pepper. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to over cook the broccoli this will help it remain green in color and allow it to stay crunchy.
5. Add parsley and green onions.
6. Divide into 6 large bowls and serve.
Yields 6 servings.