Del Monte Artichoke Soup

Directions

1. 1
   Combine the first 9 ingredients in a large stock pot, and bring to a boil.
2. 2
   Turn down flame and simmer for 1 1/2 hours until ingredients are soft.
3. 3
   Remove artichokes and pick 48 of the outer leaves for garnish.
4. 4
   Set leaves aside.
5. 5
   Puree mixture in a cuisinart in batches.
6. 6
   Return to stock pot, add cream and simmer for another 30 minutes.
7. 7
   Strain the soup through a fine strainer and return soup to a clean pot.
8. 8
   Bring to a simmer.
9. 9
   Add Sherry and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
10. 10
    Serve the soup garnished with the reserved artichoke leaves.
11. 11
    If you wish to thicken the soup, do so with a butter, flour roux, or mix some cornstarch into sherry or water and add to the pot.
12. 12
    Stirring until thickened.