Broccoli stems

If you have a lot of broccoli stems following the big family reunion, make a velvety cream soup. If you have but a couple, cut off the woody bottom, peel and slice the rest. (The surface is convoluted so take a bit of time.) Sweat finely chopped shallots - or onions or leeks - in butter. Add the sliced broccoli, salt and pepper and a quarter cup of chicken broth; cover and cook until tender. 

Mystery vegetable. Be prepared for disbelief.