Curried Parsnip Soup

Ginsugirl's Note:

Parsnips are veggies that never get enough respect. Like squash or yams, parsnips are slightly sweet, so they take curry spices really well. This soup is a favourite at home and at the restaurant, and as a bonus, it's low-fat and vegetarian!

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 3 tablespoons oil
• 2 onions , chopped
• 2 stalks celery , thinly sliced
• 1 piece gingerroot , about 1/2 inch, quartered, don't bother peeling
• 2 garlic cloves , minced
• 2 tablespoons good curry paste (I like Pataks or Sharwoods) or 1 tablespoon curry powder (I like Pataks or Sharwoods)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
• chili flakes , to taste (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 ½ lbs parsnips , peeled and roughly chopped
• 6 cups vegetable stock (or water and a veggie bouillon cube )
• salt and pepper

Directions:

1. In a large, heavy pot, heat oil and saute onions and celery until softened, about four minutes. Add ginger, garlic, curry chili flakes and turmeric, cook two minutes more.
2. Add parsnips, bay leaves and stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the parsnips are very soft, about 45 minutes. Remove bay leaves and ginger chunks. Puree with a stick blender (or in batches in a food processor). If it does seem too thick, add a little broth or water. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.