1.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. When the bubbling has stopped, sauté the shallots until they are soft. Slowly stir or whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
2.
Stir in the artichoke hearts and 2 tablespoons of parsley. Cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes.
3.
Puree the soup using an immersion blender (or in batches in a stand blender). If desired, strain the soup through a fine mesh strainer.
4.
Set the pan over medium heat and slowly add the half and half, blending it in thoroughly. Season the soup with the salt and pepper.
5.
The soup may be served hot or cold. Garnish each serving with the remaining parsley.