Leek Soup

Ingredients

• 1  bay leaf 
• 2.5 inch diagonally bread baguette french cut
• 1 tablespoon butter 
• 1.3 ounces parrano originale cheese shredded
• 5 cups less-sodium chicken broth fat-free
• 5  garlic cloves minced
• 4 cups leek thinly sliced ( 4 large)
• 4  thyme sprigs 

Equipment

• bowl
• baking sheet
• sauce pan
• ladle
• broiler

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add leek and garlic; saut 15 minutes or until golden.
3. Add broth, thyme, and bay leaf; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes.
4. While soup simmers, preheat broiler.
5. Place baguette slices on a large baking sheet, and sprinkle evenly with cheese. Broil 4 minutes or until cheese melts and bread is toasted.
6. Remove soup from heat, and discard bay leaf. Ladle soup into individual bowls, and top with cheese toast.