Fresh artichokes are the key ingredient is this rich and creamy soup recipe. Artichokes have that wonderful taste that is simply divine. This delicious artichoke soup is really easy to prepare and cook and it should only take about and hour to complete.

Ingredients

• 1lb 11oz Jerusalem artichokes (peeled and sliced)
• 1 lemon (thickly sliced)
• 2oz butter
• 2 onions (chopped)
• 1 garlic clove (crushed)
• 2-1/4pt vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (ground)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 5fl oz single cream
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Start by putting the artichokes in a bowl with the lemon slices, and cover with water. Then melt the butter in a large saucepan over a low heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sweat lightly for about 3–4 minutes or until soft. Drain the artichokes, discarding the lemon, and add them to the pan.

Mix well and sweat lightly for 2–3 minutes without allowing the mixture to colour. Next add the vegetable stock, bay leaves, nutmeg and lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture slowly to the boil, then cover and simmer lightly for about 30 minutes.

Next discard the bay leaves and let the soup cool slightly, then puree in a blender or food processor until smooth. Finish by pouring the soup into a clean pan and bringing to a boil. Then reduce the heat, stir in the cream and cook gently, without boiling, for no more then 2 minutes. Serve with lunch or dinner.