GARLIC-FENNEL BISQUE

Garlic-Fennel Bisque image

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 6

24 garlic cloves, peeled, halved
4 cups (or more) water
2 1/2 cups half and half
3 medium fennel bulbs, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons finely chopped fennel fronds, plus additional for garnish
1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted

Steps:

Bring garlic, 4 cups water, and half and half to boil in medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low. Cover; simmer until garlic is very soft, about 30 minutes. Add fennel and 2 tablespoons chopped fronds; bring to boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover; simmer until fennel is very soft, about 30 minutes. Working in batches, puree soup in blender, adding more water by 1/2 cupfuls as needed for smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Rewarm soup over low heat.) Ladle into bowls. Sprinkle with additional fennel fronds and pine nuts.