Creamy Lettuce and Garlic Soup

Heat butter in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add shallot and garlic and cook, stirring, about 4 minutes. Add flour and cook, stirring, until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add wine and cook, stirring, about 3 minutes. Add broth, lettuce, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover pot and bring liquid to a boil, then drop to a simmer and cook until lettuce is tender, about 5 minutes.

Remove soup from heat, add a dash of nutmeg and the half-and-half, and use a hand blender to blend until smooth. Alternatively, blend soup in a blender in two batches. Serve immediately, with a touch of extra cream in each bowl, if desired; alternatively; chill soup before serving.