Irish Pumpkin Potage

[Scott]

INGREDIENTS
3 pounds peeled, seeded and diced sugar pumpkin
2 leeks, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup olive oil
6 cups chicken stock
4 1/2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon Hungarian sweet paprika
1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

DIRECTIONS
Halve the pumpkin and scrape out the seeds and pitch. Cut into 1 inch pieces.
In a large skillet, saute the pumpkin, leeks, onion and garlic in olive oil. Add chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
Strain vegetables, place in food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer puree to pot or crock pot; add enough milk to reach smooth consistency.
Add the cayenne pepper, paprika, ground pepper and nutmeg; simmer for 30 minutes and do not allow to boil.
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May your day be touched
by a bit of Irish luck,
brightened by a song in your heart,
and warmed by the smiles
of the people you love.

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