Spiced Cherry Soup

Flavor Sachet:
1 stick cinnamon
1 star anise
1 whole clove
1 grated lime rind
1 grated lemon rind
1 grated orange rind

Soup:
1 1/2 pounds fresh cherries, pitted
3/4 cup granulated sugar

Garnish:
1 pound cherries, pitted and halved
8 sprigs mint

Place cinnamon stick, star anise, clove, and citrus zest in middle of a 4 inch square cheesecloth. Bring corners together to form a pouch and tie securely. Set aside.

Combine the cherries, 3 1/4 cups of water, and sugar in a large saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and add flavor sachet. Cover and let stand 2 hours to blend and bring out the flavors.

Remove sachet from soup. Pour soup into food processor and blend until smooth. Strain through large sieve into a large bowl. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until thoroughly chilled.

Serve with garnish of mint sprig.

Makes 8 servings.