Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons safflower oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 cups diced peeled carrots (about 6 medium carrots)
  • 1 cup diced peeled potatoes, preferably yellow Finn
  • 1 cup diced red bell peppers
  • 1 cup diced stewed tomatoes
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground mace
  • 6 cups rich chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped basil

Method

  • In a large kettle over medium heat, heat the oil and butter.
  • Add the onion and cook, stirring, until it is softened, about 2 minutes.
  • Add the celery, carrots, potatoes and red bell peppers and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the tomatoes, cayenne, ginger, mace and chicken broth and bring to a boil.
  • Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, until the vegetables are very tender, about 1/2 hour.
  • Stir in the basil and serve.