Austen, Jane (oh) and Cream of Cucumber Soup (recipes)

Austen, Jane (oh)

(1775-1817) a British writer who wrote in a clever and amusing way about the way of life of English middle class people of her time. Her novels, which are among the most important works of English literature, include Pride and Prejudice , Sense and Sensibility, and Emma.

Cream of Cucumber Soup (recipes)

Makes 6–7 cups

1 ½ lb. cucumbers

½ cup minced shallots, or combination of shallots, scallions, and / or onions

3 Tbsp. butter

6 cups liquid: chicken stock

1½ tsp. Wine vinegar

¾ tsp. dill weed

4 tbsp. quick Cooking farina (cream of wheat), not instant salt and white pepper

1 cup sour cream

1-2 Tbsp. minced fresh dill, tarragon or parsley

Peel the cucumbers. Cut 18-24 paper thin slices and reserve in a bowl for later use. Cut the rest of the cucumbers into ½” chunks. Makes about 4 ½ cups

Cook the scallions slowly in the butter for several minutes until tender but not browned. Add the cucumber chunks, chicken broth, vinegar, and dill. Bring to a boil, and then stir in the cream of wheat. Simmer partially covered for 20-25 minutes. Puree, and return soup to the pan. Thin out with more liquid if necessary. Season with salt and pepper

Just before serving, beat in ½ cup sour cream. Ladle into soup bowls. Place a dollop of sour cream in each bowl, float slices of cucumber on top and decorate with a sprinkling of herbs.

May be served hot or cold.

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