CREAM OF ALMOND SOUP

2/3 c. blanched almonds
2 tbsp. butter
2 tbsp. flour
1 1/2 c. chicken broth
2 c. half & half
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1/4 c. heavy cream

Chop or crush almonds finely. Combine with heavy cream in a small bowl. Heat butter in a medium-size saucepan . Add flour and cook slowly, stirring for 2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring and cooking slowly, until thickened and smooth. Add half and half, salt and pepper and heat through. Mix in almonds and heavy cream just before serving. Serves 4.