CREAMY POTATO AND SAFFRON SOUP

This is inspired by a soup from Abruzzo, a “minestra,” which is traditionally made with diced potatoes and other vegetables in a saffron broth. This is a modern version that’s blended until creamy — it’s delicate and elegant, yet simple.

Instruction

Gently cook the onion in the olive oil in a large saucepan over low heat. Cook about 5 minutes, or until the onion begins to get soft and translucent. Add the garlic and continue cooking gently, another 5 minutes or until soft and fragrant but not browned.

Add the chilli and potatoes and cover with cold water (about 3 cups). Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to the boil over medium heat. Simmer the potatoes about 30 minutes or until they are very soft.

Remove from the heat, add the saffron, and let it infuse for about 5 minutes. Blend (a hand mixer is handy for this) until smooth, adding more milk or extra water to loosen the soup to your preferred consistency. Season to taste. Serve with freshly ground black pepper and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small onion chopped finely
• 1 clove garlic chopped finely
• 1 pinch of dried chilli
• 4 medium sized potatoes peeled and diced
• 3 cups of cold water
• Salt and pepper
• 1 pinch dried saffron (about 1/10 gram)
• 1/2 cup of milk or extra water, if desired