Oyster and Artichoke Soup

Description
Contributed by Healthy Recipes for Diabetic Friends Y-Group
 * Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

 * 5 tbsp butter
 * 1 bunch green onions, chopped
 * 2 large stalks celery, chopped
 * 3 cloves garlic, pressed
 * 1 x 14oz can artichoke hearts, cut in quarters
 * 1½ tbsp flour
 * 1 can chicken broth
 * pinch cayenne
 * ½ tsp salt
 * 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
 * ½ tsp thyme
 * 1 pint oysters, drained and chopped (reserve liquor)
 * ¼ cup vermouth
 * 1 cup milk
 * 1 cup half-and-half

Directions

 * 1) Melt the butter and saute the green onions, celery and garlic until soft.
 * 2) Add the artichokes.
 * 3) Sprinkle the mixture with the flour and stir to coat the vegetables well, but do not let the flour brown.
 * 4) Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly.
 * 5) Add the cayenne, salt, Worcestershire sauce and thyme.
 * 6) Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
 * 7) Add the oysters, oyster liquor and vermouth and simmer 10 minutes more.
 * 8) Do not allow to boil.
 * 9) Stir in the milk and half-and-half.
 * 10) Before serving, heat the soup slowly over low heat.

Nutritional information
Per serving:
 * 428 Calories | 25g Fat | 27g Carbs | 5g Fiber | 1714mg Sodium