thomaswos
10-23-2009, 01:33 PM
Ingredients1 large onion4 tablespoons butter1 pint edible sweet chestnuts1 potato4 sticks of celery2 1/2 pints of vegetable stock1 level tablespoon plain flour2 tablespoons sherry1/2 pint single creamsmall clove garlicsalt and black pepperMethod- Slit each chestnut shell with a knife.- Bring to the boil in a pan of water.- Simmer for about 30 minutes.- Drain the chestnuts and allow to cool.- Remove the shells and rub off the brown skins on the nuts.- Prepare and chop all the vegetables and herbs to taste.- Melt the butter in a pan and soften the onions and garlic.- Sprinkle the flour into the pan and work well into the onions and garlic.- Pour the stock into the pan, stir well and bring to the boil.- Add the other vegetables and herbs.- Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the chestnuts are very soft.- Cool and blend in a food processor.- Season with salt and pepper and check seasoning by tasting.- Reheat gently, stirring in the sherry and cream.- Do not boil again. Serve sprinkled with fresh parsley.