PEACH BUTTERMILK SOUP

PEACH BUTTERMILK SOUP image

Yield 6-8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

3 pounds ripe peaches
2 to 3 tablespoons mild flavored honey, such as clover or acacia (to taste)
2 to 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (to taste)
3 cups buttermilk
1/2 teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
Pinch of ground cardamom (optional)
For garnish: 1/4 cup lightly toasted slivered almonds

Steps:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Drop the peaches into the boiling water, blanch for 20 seconds, then transfer to the ice water. Peel, cut in half, remove the pits, and set 2 large or 3 small peaches aside. 2. Place the remaining peaches in a blender with the honey, lemon juice and 1 cup of the buttermilk (you will probably have to work in batches) and blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl and whisk in the remaining buttermilk, the almond or vanilla extract, and the spices. Taste and adjust seasonings. 3. Slice or dice the peaches you set aside and stir into the soup. Cover and refrigerate for one hour or longer. Ladle into bowls and garnish each serving with slivered almonds.