Delaware - The First State, State flower: Peach Blossom

1. Cucumber Bisque
2. Deviled Crabs
3. Creamed Onions and Peas
4. Oatmeal Bread
5. Lemon Pie Supreme

Cucumber Bisque

6 Tbsp butter
2 med. Onions, finely chopped, 1 cup
2 large cucumbers, peeled and finely chopped, 2 cups
3 cups chicken stock
3 Tbsp flour
2 egg yolks
½ cup heavy cream
Salt
White pepper
1 med. cucumber, peeled and diced to ¼" cubes
2 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley or chives

In a heavy 2 to 3 quart saucepan, melt 4 Tbsp of the butter over moderate heat. When the foam subsides, stir in the chopped onions and chopped cucumbers (not the ¼" cubes) and, stirring occasionally, cook them for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent but not brown.

Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Lower heat, simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Pour the soup into a sieve set over a large bowl and force the vegetables through with the back of a wooden or Exoglas® spoon.

Melt the remaining 2 Tbsp butter in the saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in the flour. Pour in the pureed soup, beating vigorously with a wire whisk. Return to a moderate heat and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, whisking constantly, until the soup has thickened slightly.

In a small bowl, combine the egg yolks and heavy cream. Constantly whisking pour into it cup of the hot soup 2 Tbsp at a time. Then, reverse the process. Slowly pour this warmed mixture back into the remaining soup, still whisking. Simmer over a very low heat for 5 minutes but do not let the soup come to a boil. Just before serving, stir in the diced raw cucumber, season with salt & white pepper and sprinkle with the chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm or...

To serve the soup cold, let it cool to room temperature then cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Add the diced raw cucumber, seasonings and chopped herbs just before serving. Sour cream of a spoonful of slightly salted whipped cream may be used on each portion.

Click on State name...it will take you to its menu and recipes.