Almond Soup

Directions

1. 1
   In a heavy skillet, cook the almonds in butter, with onion, garlic, ginger and salt over a low flame, stirring until the almonds are toasty and the onions are soft (8 - 10 minutes).
2. 2
   Remove from heat.
3. 3
   Using a blender or a food processor or a hand held emersion blender, puree the sauteed mixture in combined water (or stock) and orange juice.
4. 4
   Add sherry to taste.
5. 5
   Make sure the puree is very smooth.
6. 6
   Transfer it to a saucepan.
7. 7
   Stir in the orange rind and the black and cayenne peppers.
8. 8
   Heat the soup gently (just heat it - don't cook it) Serve it as soon as it's hot and garnish each with.
9. 9
   Assorted Delightful Toppings:.
10. 10
    slivered toasted almonds.
11. 11
    finely minced cloves.
12. 12
    thin rounds of fresh orange rind.