FRIENDSHIP SOUP

"A recipe, or a craft you can eat? The symbolism of Friendship Soup is a welcome addition to the kitchen of any lover of fresh herbs."

2 quarts water
1 cup rice, uncooked (for strength)
1/2 cup barley(for prosperity)
2 red bell peppers, finely chopped
2 green bell peppers, finely chopped
1/4 cup chopped onion
3 tbsp butter or 2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup cream
1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
2 bay leaves(for victory)
1 tsp marjoram (for joy and happiness)
1 tsp mint(for wisdom)
1 tsp savory (for remembrance)
1 tsp sage (for long life)
1 tsp savory (for good interest)
1 tsp thyme (for bravery)

Place 2 quarts water in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil. Stir in rice and barley. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 45 minutes or until tender and all the water is absorbed.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the peppers and onions in butter or olive oil until semi-soft. Add the cream and chicken or vegetable stock and mix together well; set aside.

Place herbs in a muslin bag or in an herbal soup spoon; set aside.

When the rice and barley are done, pour stock and cream mixture into pan with rice. Add the herb bag or spoon and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove herbs and serve while hot.

Adapted from source: Karen DeCosta