Chestnut Soup

Directions

1. 1
   1.
2. 2
   Bring the chicken stock and the star anise to a boil in a large saucepan, covered, over medium-high heat.
3. 3
   Reduce the heat to simmer and cook for 30 minutes.
4. 4
   Remove the star anise from the stock and add the chestnuts.
5. 5
   Bring to a boil, reduce the heat so the mixture is simmering and cook, covered, until the chestnuts are tender through and falling apart, about 20 minutes.
6. 6
   2.
7. 7
   Remove one third of the chestnuts from the soup and reserve.
8. 8
   Puree the remaining soup, then add the reserved chestnut pieces and heat the soup until it is hot but not boiling.
9. 9
   Adjust the seasoning and ladle the soup into warmed soup bowls.
10. 10
    Add 1 tablespoon creme fraiche to each bowl, and garnish each bowl with a star anise.
11. 11
    Serve immediately.