Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 shallot
• 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
• 5 cups chopped carrots
• 1 potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 garlic clove, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• freshly crushed black pepper
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 1 1/4 cups packed fresh basil
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts
• 1 pinch each salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Basil Pesto: In food processor, finely chop together basil, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, salt and pepper.

2. With motor running, add oil in thin steady stream. (Make-ahead: Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze.).

3. In Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat; fry onion, shallot, carrots, potato, garlic, salt, pepper and curry powder stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 10 minutes.

4. Add chicken broth and bring to boil.

5. Cover, reduce heat and simmer to blend flavours, about 40 minutes.

6. Ad nutmeg. Let cool slightly.

7. Using immersion blender or in batches in blender, puré soup until smooth. Add water to thin if desired.

8. (Make-ahead: Let cool for 30 minutes. Refrigerate, uncovered, in airtight container until cold. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

9. When ready to serve; reheat. Ladle into bowls; swirl 1 tsp pesto into each.