Oyster and Artichoke Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pint oysters (in oyster liquor)
- 4 cups chicken stock or broth
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 14-ounce can artichoke hearts, drained, rinsed and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Lea & Perrins (Worcestershire sauce)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Strain oysters over a bowl to remove grit and separate them from the oyster liquor; reserve liquor. Chop oysters, cover and refrigerate until needed. Measure oyster liquor and add enough chicken stock to make 4 cups; set aside. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour. Cook, whisking constantly, until a blond roux is achieved. Add onions and green onions; cook, whisking constantly, until tender, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and artichoke hearts; cook an 2 additional minutes. Gradually whisk in reserved oyster liquor and chicken stock. Add Lea & Perrins, thyme and cayenne pepper; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Add chopped oysters and simmer until oysters are cooked through and edges curl, about 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and season to taste with salt and black pepper. Serve immediately. Makes 6 servings.