Red Pepper (Capsicum) Soup

You need to start making this roasted red pepper soup one or two days in advance. It can be served as an appetizer but also makes a delicious complete or vegetarian meal when served with herb bread. Recipe serves 6.

Ingredients:

4-5 large red or yellow peppers (capsicum)
2 quarts (2 litres) chicken stock
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
A few drops of Tabasco sauce
4 tablespoons rice (uncooked)
1/4 bunch fresh chives
Oven bag (regular size)

Method:

1. Arrange peppers, skin side up, on foil covered baking trays. Cook under a hot grill or in the oven until skins are blistered but not blackened. Turn as necessary.
2. Place in an oven bag for 10-15 minutes. When cool enough to handle, skin. Cut into 3/4 inch (2 cm) squares.
3. Bring chicken stock to the boil, add pepper, tomato paste and paprika. Season and add Tabasco sauce to taste.
4. Add rice and simmer gently for 10 minutes or until rice is tender. Cool and refrigerate for 1-2 days, or freeze until needed.
5. Warm the soup and serve with freshly snipped chives on top and herb bread.