Pumpkin Soup
with Crispy Bacon



50g (2oz) Butter

2 large onions peeled and chopped

650g (1.5 lbs) pumpkin peeled and diced.

1 teasp fresh thyme leaves

500ml (1 pt) milk

500ml(1 pt) chicken stock

Seasoning

3 &endash;4 rashers of smoky bacon

Chopped parsley


Method

* Melt the butter in a large saucepan, add the onion and, simmer to soften.

* Stir in the pumpkin, and sauté for 5 minutes.

* Stir in the thyme, seasoning and stock brings to the boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes.

* Transfer to the food processor and blend to give a smooth puree, return to the pan add the milk and heat through.

* Grill the bacon until crisp and chop into small pieces.

* Spoon the soup into warmed soup cups sprinkle the bacon bits and parsley on top and serve with crusty bread.