Delicious Broccoli Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 4 cups chopped fresh broccoli (about 1-1/2 pounds)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 rib chopped celery
• 1/2-1 cup minced onion
• 6 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 basil leaves, chopped (or 1/2 tsp of dried basil)
• 3 to 4 thyme sprigs , chopped (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
• 3 to 4 sage leaves, chopped (or 1/4 tsp dried sage)
• croutons, for garnish (optional)