Real Meaning Behind Soup-er Bowl Sunday

I really detest football. I don't understand how it is entertaining watching muscular-padded players run around after each other, jump on each other and just get hurt trying to do so.  Is there actually a strategy or three of how and when this should be done?!  Anyways football is stupid in my book.  I thought I would come up with my own way to celebrate...hearty soup in a bowl. SOUP-ER BOWL here I come.

Bread Bowls
adapted from: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Bread-Bowls-2

1 1/4 cups warm water
2 T olive oil
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 t sugar
salt
3 cups flour (I used 1/3 part whole wheat flour)
1 T yeast

If using a bread machine place in machine as manufacturer suggests for a 'dough' setting.  Otherwise place warm water, yeast and sugar in a mixing bowl.  Let marry a little bit.  Add oil and Parmesan.  Slowly add flour (add just enough so that dough pulls away from the sides).  If needed a little water or flour if absolutely necessary.  Remove to a greased bowl.  Cover and let rise for at least 30 minutes so it doubles in size.  For both variations, divide dough into fourths.  Roll into balls.  Place on a greased cookie sheet.  Rise again.  Preheat oven to 400.  Bake 15-20 minutes until lightly browned. Cool.  Cut off top and remove innards (save for later if desired).  Fill with soup. Eat.  MMM....

Broccoli Cheese Soup
adapted from: http://www.melskitchencafe.com/2008/12/broccoli-cheese-soup.html
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/11/broccoli-cheese-soup/

1 3/4 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, diced
1/3 cup flour
1/4 cup butter
1/2 t pepper
1/2 t salt
2 cups warmed milk (used part or mostly 1/2-n-1/2)
2 cups cheese, shredded (I used a mixture of cheddar and jack)
2 1/2 to 3 cups lightly steamed broccoli*


Saute onion lightly in extra butter or olive oil in a small saucepan.  Add broth.  Simmer for about 15-20 minutes.  In a dutch oven add butter and melt.  Add flour, salt and pepper.  Cook together for a few minutes.  Whisk in warm milk. Thicken.  Add broth and onions.  Stir.  Add cheese and mix until melted.  Add streamed broccoli. Use immersion blender if desired to mix well (and hide the broccoli chunkies from the kiddos- though the boys around here LOVE broccoli).
*or add raw with 1/2 cup diced carrots before cheese and just simmer 20-25 minutes