PARSNIP AND THYME SOUP WITH HAZELNUT BUTTER

Parsnips have a unique flavour, quite unlike any other vegetable.  When used as I have done in a soup you uncover a sweetness and creamy texture which in turn makes a delectable soup.

Serves 4

Ingredients

Soup 

2 Tbsp oil

1 kg parsnips, peeled and cut into even sized pieces

1 leek, white only, finely sliced

1 Tbsp fresh thyme, roughly chopped

½ tsp cumin seeds

Salt and white pepper to taste

Hazelnut butter

50g butter

50g hazelnuts, toasted, lightly crushed

Method

Add the oil to a large pot and over moderate heat add the leek and cook without colouring for 2 minutes.

Add the parsnips, thyme and cumin seeds, stir to coat in the oily leeks.  Continue cooking with out colouring for a further 5 minutes.

Add 1.5 litres of cold water, add 1 tsp salt and a couple pinches of ground white pepper.

Cook over a moderate heat until the parsnips are soft and fragrant. 

Blend until silky smooth.  Rinse the pot and return the pureed soup back into it and reheat gently.  Taste and adjust the seasoning and consistency if needed.

To make the hazelnut butter; melt the butter in a small saucepan over a moderate heat until the butter starts to go golden brown and gives off a nutty aroma.  Add the crushed hazelnuts and toss in the butter and carefully cook for a further minute. Remove from the heat immediately.

Ladle the soup into warm bowls, spoon over the warm nutty butter and enjoy.