1 can chicken broth
3 T chicken base
2 quarts water
1/4 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp salt
1 inch chunk ginger, peeled and crushed
2 bay leaves
8 large cloves garlic, crushed
2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
1/2 Bermuda onion, thinly sliced
1 large red pepper, chopped
12 baby carrots, thinly sliced
1 leek, thinly sliced
5 mushrooms, thinly sliced
1 scallion, sliced in one-inch pieces

Put everything into a soup pot and simmer gently for 1-2 hours adding water as needed. This makes a light, refreshing, summer dish or first course.

For a more substantial meal, you can add a few pierogies or raviolis 10-15 minutes before serving by first bringing soup to a boil. Or this can be served over fresh noodles.

Season to taste, and remove from heat. Serve accompanied by toasted Italian bread spread with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese.

Submitted by: CM