Microwave Curried Apple and Cider Soup

In this unusual soup apples accentuate the fruity flavor of the cider, and cream mellows its sharp bite. It can be served hot, but is rather special cold. Recipe serves 4 as an appetizer.

Power Setting: High (100%)

Ingredients:

1 onion
1 1/2 ounces (45 g) butter
1 tablespoon curry powder
2 tablespoons cornflour
3/4 pint (400 ml) chicken stock
2 eating or dessert apples
2 egg yolks
1/2 pint (150 ml) double or thickened cream
1/2 pint (300 ml) dry cider
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method:

1. Peel and chop the onion. Place the butter in a large bowl with the onion and cook for 2 minutes. Sprinkle in the curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the cornflour to the bowl, blending it in well. Gradually add the stock and cook for 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes. Remove from the microwave and leave to cool slightly.
3. Peel, core and finely chop 1 1/2 of the apples. Put into a blender with the soup and blend till smooth. Return to the bowl and cook 2-3 minutes until boiling.
4. Blend the egg yolks and cream together in a bowl and slowly stir into the soup. Add the cider, allow fizzing to subside, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook for 1-2 minutes until hot but not boiling.
5. To serve, slice the remaining 1/2 apple into wafer-thin strips and toss in lemon juice. Drain and add to the soup just before serving. Garnish with a swirl of cream or plain yogurt if desired. The soup can also be served cold - it's particularly good before a rather hot and spicy main course or as a cooling summer soup.

To freeze: Make soup as Steps 1-3. Cool, pour into rigid container, cover, label and freeze.
Freezer life: 3 months.
To use: cook from frozen for 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes, then proceed as Step 4.