Peanut Soup



Outside the King's Arms Tavern in Colonial Williamsburg, VA.

One of my very favorite places to visit is Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. My parents took us to visit often when we were children and I never tire of visiting the craftsman's shop or listening to "Thomas Jefferson" speak on the Governor's Palace lawn.  It's always 1774 there and you can loose yourself in the history of the American Revolution while eating and dining in style and comfort.

There are a couple of good, authentic restaurants in the restored area. I usually try to eat one meal at Chownings and another at Shields Tavern but I never miss visiting the Kings Arms Tavern.  My favorite corn pudding recipe comes from the Kings Arms. My out and out favorite is the Cream of Peanut Soup.

It's a simple enough recipe. You may be thinking Peanut Soup? But just like some folks love Peanut Butter Pie, I love Cream of Peanut Soup. It is a great starter for Thanksgiving Dinner and a serving is a little more than 400 calories, so plan to take a long walk after dinner!

 

King's Arms Tavern Cream of Peanut Soup

 

1 medium onion, chopped                                           2 quarts chicken broth

2 ribs celery, chopped                                                 2 cups smooth peanut butter

1/4 cup butter                                                              1 2/4 cups light cream

3 tablespoons flour                                                      chopped peanuts to garnish

 

Saute the onions and celery in butter until soft, but not brown. Stir in the flour until well blended.  Add chicken stock, stirring constantly and bring to a boil.  Remove from heat and puree the mixture in a food processor or blender.  Stir in peanut butter and cream and blend thoroughly.  Return to low heat, but do not boil.  Warm through. Serve garnished with chopped peanuts.