Pumpkin Bisque

 

Ingredients
1/3 cup chopped shallots
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced fresh gingerroot
1 tablespoon canola oil
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups not-chicken broth
1/3 cup apple cider or juice
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons maple syrup
1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Dash ground cloves
1 cup cooked white rice
toasted pumpkin seed oil for garnish

Instructions
In a small saucepan, saute the shallots, onion and ginger in oil until tender. Stir in flour until blended; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Gradually stir in broth and cider. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
Stir in the pumpkin, syrup and seasonings. Return to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from the heat; cool slightly.
In a blender, process soup  and rice in batches until smooth. Return all to the pan and heat through (do not boil).
Enjoy!