Chicken Artichoke Brie Soup

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, onion and garlic. Cook and stir till tender. Add broth, white pepper, and salt. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes.

In a large screw-top jar combine half-and-half and flour. Cover and shake well until smooth; stir into soup. Cook and stir till thickened and bubbly.

Stir in chicken, whipping cream, artichoke hearts, spinach and Brie. Cook and stir over medium-low heat about 5 minutes more or till heated through and cheese is melted. (Stir often to make sure soup doesn't scorch on bottom of saucepan.) Serve topped with croutons, if you like. Makes 8 side-dish or 4 main-dish servings.