aka Amber Fox Kitchen

Robust Tomato Soup, Gath'r'ette '97, Martha Bear

serves 12

Shopping List: two large tins tomatoes; two small tins tomato paste; two large red onions; one red pepper; some wee okras (12 is a nice round figure); one soft cooking apple (not delicious -- empires are nice); one cup kernel corn -- frozen is OK; two tsp. cayenne pepper; two tsp. black pepper; dash nutmeg; salt to taste; fresh garlic to taste (six cloves, at least); sprigs of fresh parsley (enough to decorate 12 bowls); olive oil.

The Dish: Chop onions and red pepper. Mince garlic. Pour a splash of olive oil in the bottom of your soup pan, and briefly sauté the onions, red pepper and garlic in the oil. Then, add the tomatoes, tomato paste, and eight cups of water. Over modest heat, reduce the whole tomatoes. Dice the cooking apple, slice the okra, and add both to the mixture. Add corn. Then add all spices. Reduce heat, and allow to simmer for a good long piece -- long enough to effect a costume change, cocktails, a photo opportunity, and three yoo-hoos. Serve immediately and top with a sprig of parsley.