Spicy Parsnip soup - Test 1

http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/vegetables-recipes/spicy-parsnip-soup/
Serves 6

1 - A surprising soup because the colour does not match the flavours. Very rich, sweet and warming.

2 - Ben continues to be surprised at how well balanced the flavors are in this dish. He points out that it's a good soup to have with a sandwich or grilled cheese, that it's a bit much on its own.

1 Tbsp mild oil
1 Tbsp butter
1 onion, chopped (100 gr)
2 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1 tablespoon garam masala
1/2 tsp ground cardamom 
1/2 tsp ground allspice 
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
dash of cayenne
6 1 1/2 lbs parsnips, peeled and chopped
500 ml semi-skimmed 1 1/2 cups milk
1 litre organic 2 cups stock
sea Salt, to taste
Freshly ground b Black pepper, to taste
1/2 fresh red chilli, deseeded and finely sliced (or 1/4 tsp flakes)
Optional : 1 handful fresh coriander leaves

1. Heat a splash of olive the oil and the butter in a large saucepan. Add the onion, garlic, ginger and spices. garam masala  Bring to a sizzle then lower the heat to slowly cook Gently fry for around 10 minutes, until the onions are soft and starting to caramelize sweet.
2. Drop in the chopped parsnip and stir together so that everything gets coated in the oil and flavours. 
3. Pour in the milk and stock, season well with salt and pepper and bring to the boil. 
4. Turn down the heat and simmer for 30 minutes with a lid on or until the parsnip is thoroughly cooked.
5. After half an hour, check that the parsnips are cooked by sticking a knife in. If you’re happy, Remove them from the heat, purée and adjust the  and carefully whiz up using a hand blender or liquidizer. Taste the soup to see if it needs a little more salt or  and pepper.
6. Serve garnished with coriander leaves (optional).
7. Best served with bread instead of crackers.
8. Serve with a sprinkling of sliced red chilli, a few coriander leaves if you like, and a good chunk of crusty bread.
9. Tip: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a twist.