Hearty, nutritious, refreshing and delicious, soup has always been the original comfort food. From light consommés to creamy chowders, tangy curries to chilled fruit concoctions, you'll find the perfect dish to fit any occasion. Tasty meals-in-a-pot abound from recipes inspired by regions as far flung as Japan, Italy, Russia, and New Zealand and as close to home as New York, New England and the Southwest. Chase the cold away with Hot & Sour Tofu Soup, Acorn Squash and Apple, and Roquefort Soup with Cauliflower. Celebrate summer with an infinite variety of fresh fruit and vegetable delights: Chilled Curried Peach Soup, Cantaloupe Cooler, Gazpacho, and much more. For dessert, try Chocolate Mint Soup, Cherry Wine, or Chestnut and Amaretto. With tips on making vegetable stocks, hints on blending complimentary flavors, and suggestions on ways to substitute ingredients that may be hard to find, this is a practical and inspiring resource.