MMMmonday - Sweet Potato Bisque and Recipe Linky

I've got 5 minutes to myself for the first time today and since I've been hit or miss on getting my posts up on time, I thought I'd better get this one up a little early rather than miss out on it all together, which seems to be more the habit for me this week...


In keeping with my theme this month, here's another yummy soup recipe, from the kitchens of one of my favorite chefs, Joe at wwrecipes.com


Here's a thick, rich soup that can be served as a first course or can stand alone as a one-dish meal.

Sweet Potato Bisque

3 medium sweet potatoes
5 cups (1.25 L) chicken stock or vegetable stock
2 Tbs (30 ml) olive oil
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 ribs celery, finely chopped
2 - 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tsp (10 ml) freshly grated ginger
1 cup (250 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
1/4 cup (60 ml) dry sherry (optional)
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Sour cream for garnish (optional)
Chopped fresh chives for garnish (optional)

Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until tender. Peel and mash with a little of the chicken stock until smooth. 
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large pot over moderate heat and saute the onions, celery, and garlic until tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the sweet potatoes, ginger, and remaining stock and bring to a boil. Simmer covered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in the cream and optional sherry, and season with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with a dollop of sour cream and/or chopped chives if desired. Serves 6 to 8.


My notes:  I don't use sherry, and I make it lighter by using half and half or just milk, depending on what I have in the house... 


Here's this month's linky - don't forget to link up some yummy recipes to share: