YOU WILL GET BETTER SOUP (time 40 minutes)

• 6 cups rich turkey or chicken stock
• 2 heads garlic, cloves separated and peeled
• 4 to 6 small fresh jalapenos, seeded and coarsely chopped, or less if desired
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
• salt to taste
• Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or pepper Jack cheese

1. Combine the stock, garlic, jalapenos and herbs in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and simmer until the garlic is very soft, about 30 minutes.
2. Transfer to a blender, and puree until smooth. Season with salt, and serve in mugs, garnished with the Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pepper Jack cheese if you're up to it.

Yield: 3 or 4 servings.

New York Times ~ Eating Well by Marian Burros 2/3/99