Broccoli Barley Soup

2 medium onions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 ounces sliced fresh mushrooms
3 tablespoons butter
3 cups chicken broth
3 cups vegetable broth
3/4 cup uncooked medium pearl barley
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1 pound fresh broccoli, cut into florets
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
2 cups half-and-half cream
Salt and pepper
Grated Parmesan cheese

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, saute the first three ingredients in butter until tender. Add the chicken and vegetable broths, barley and rosemary. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until barley is tender. Add broccoli; cover and cook for 10 minutes or until broccoli is tender.

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and cold water until smooth; stir into the soup. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; stir in the cream, salt and pepper (do not boil). Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Makes 8 servings (about 2 quarts).