1 lg. stewing hen or fryer-chicken, cut in pieces
1 qt. cold water
1 tbsp. dried parsley
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp. salt (optional)
1-2 tsp. curry powder
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
2 tbsp. olive oil (or chicken broth)
1 med. onion, chopped
1 med. carrot, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 med. apple, pared, cored & chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
1/3 c. flour (optional)
1 (14 oz.) can stewed tomatoes
Cayenne pepper to taste

In large soup pot or kettle, combine first 8 ingredients; cover and simmer approximately 45 minutes (until chicken is tender). Remove chicken, if needed, to determine the need for more water. You'll need at least a quart. Discard skin and bones; cut meat into small chunks.

In another large pot, heat oil over medium heat and add next 7 ingredients; simmering until tender. Remove from heat and stir in flour. Stir in broth, chicken and tomatoes (with juice) and cayenne pepper. Boil, reduce heat; cover and simmer about 1 hour. Serves 8-10. Sprinkle with croutons, if desired. This makes a wonderful winter time dinner!

Variation: Add sausage brats with the chicken.