This soup is smooth and full of the flavors of fall.

1 tablespoon canola oil 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped 1/2 teaspoon hot curry powder 2 cans (15 ounces each) fat-free chicken broth, divided 1 tablespoon flour 12 ounces frozen mashed butternut squash* 1/8 teaspoon white pepper 1/2 cup fat-free milk 2 tablespoons brandy, optional salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream parsley for garnish

In a large saucepan or soup pot, heat oil. Add onion and apple. Cook until tender. Add curry powder and 3 cups of broth. In a small shaker or jar, combine remaining broth and flour. Shake well. Add to pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat while stirring. Continue to boil gently until apples are very tender. Add squash, white pepper, and milk. Heat through. Using a hand held blender, puree the soup until smooth. Add brandy if desired. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve in individual bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with parsley.

Note: One and one-half cups of freshly cooked mashed squash can be used in place of the package of frozen squash.

Serves 4

Nutritional Information per serving:

Calories: 130 Fat, gm.: 3 Protein, gm.: 4 Carbs, gm.: 22 Cholesterol, mg.: 0 Fiber, gm.: 2.5