Creamy Artichoke Soup With Bacon

Ingredients

• 2 pounds artichokes
• 1 slice butter
• 2-3 strips bacon rind
• 2 bay leaves
• Water
• Milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ pint heavy cream

Method

1. 1 Wash and pare artichokes. Place in a stewpan with butter, scalded/scraped bacon rind, and bay leaves.
2. 2 Cover and sweat vegetables over low heat for 8-10 minutes, shaking occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. 3 Add water to cover and stew gently until artichokes are soft.
4. 4 Rub artichokes through a sieve. Return pulp to cooking liquid and heat through.
5. 5 Stir in boiling milk until the soup reaches the consistency of double cream. Season with salt and pepper.
6. 6 Just before serving, stir in hot cream. Serve immediately.