Sweet Red Pepper Soup

Ingredients

• 4 large red bell peppers, seeded and ribs removed, chopped
• ½ cup onion, chopped
• ¼ cup apple, peeled and chopped
• ¼ cup carrot, peeled and chopped
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock

Instructions

• Saute peppers, onions, apples, carrots and vegetable oil, stirring frequently, for 5 to 7 minutes, until onions are translucent but not browned.
• Then add the stock.
• Bring to a boil over high heat.
• Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 25 minutes. Puree soup in a blender or food processor fitted with a steel blade.
• Add red food coloring if desired.
• Return soup to the saucepan.

Serving Suggestions

Luxury Starter for Special Dinners:
Add heavy cream (1 cup up to 3 cups, depending on richness desired) and serve warm or chilled. Float a spoon of sour cream or yogurt in the center and sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro leaves.