Cream of Chestnut Soup (vegan style)

• 4 oz bag ‘Chestnut Chips’
• 4 cups water
• 1 carrot (7 baby carrots)
• 1 celery stalk
• 1 medium onion
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme

Chop vegetables and garlic and place in 4 cups of water in large saucepan. Cover and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer, maintaining a low boil. Add ‘Chestnut Chips’ and continue to low boil for 20 minutes. Carefully remove to blender. If short on liquid, add water to make an even 4 cups. Blend to smooth consistency (about 45 seconds). Salt and pepper to taste. This is a simple base for a delicious soup. Do not hesitate to experiment with other ingredients. For variety, try adding additional spices, parsnips, squash, sweet potato, apple or 1/4 cup Madeira wine. Add Canadian bacon if meat is desired.