Winter is upon us!  While it has arrived a bit late here in Denali (we only have a few inches of snow currently and November was unseasonably warm) the joys of the season are now in full swing.  Whether it’s ice skating or hockey, community events like yoga or craft bazaars, mushing a team of dogs, or simply holing up with a good book or a podcast, our winter staff is enjoying it all.  And to keep our internal temperatures high during it all, we always enjoy a good soup recipe.  This one comes from Laura Cole, who was in charge of the kitchens at Camp Denali and North Face Lodge for many years and now runs the exquisite “229 Parks” restaurant at the park entrance area of Denali.  Bon appétit!

Spicy Tomato Soup

Cilantro stems add a refreshing flavor to this spicy soup.  It is great served either hot or cold.

**This recipe makes a lodge-sized serving of a whopping 30 cups! While perfect for holiday gatherings, you may wish to size it down for your family!

4 T   Olive Oil                                                                                                 

3 C  Red Onion, diced                                                                                             

1 1/2 T Garlic, minced                                                                                                         

1 T Kosher Salt                                                                                                        

1 T Crushed Red Pepper Flakes                                                                      

3 C  Cilantro, chopped, stems included                                                                      

4 each   28 oz Cans Crushed Plum Tomatoes in Juice                                             

1 Jalapeno Pepper, seeded & minced                                                          

use care with pepper the juice is very hot           

8 C  Rich Chicken Stock                                                                                                         

1 T  Sugar                                                                                                                                  

4 T  Fresh Lime Juice                                                                                              

1 1/2 C   Sour Cream                                                                                             

1 1/2 C  Basil, cut into thin strips                                                                      

In a large stock pot heat oil over medium high heat.

Add onion & garlic, sauté until tender & slightly golden.

Add salt & red pepper flakes. Stirring to combine.

Add jalapeno pepper and sauté until tender.

Add tomatoes & their juice.

Simmer on high heat for 10 minutes, when liquid has reduced by 1/4, stir in sugar & lime juice.

Stir in chicken stock.

Reduce heat to medium, simmer for 20 minutes to combine all flavors.

Add cilantro.

Taste & adjust seasonings.

Serve garnished with fresh basil & a hearty dollop of sour cream.