Read by Michael Flamel

As the crisp Spring air begins to hint of our gardens pending rebirth, there’s no better way to warm your heart and soul than by gathering your nearest and dearest for a legendary Stone Soup feast. Inspired by the timeless tale of generosity, camaraderie, and the magic of shared meals, this culinary adventure promises to create lasting memories and foster a sense of community. So, dust off your cauldron, gather your friends and neighbors, and let’s embark on a culinary journey filled with wholesome ingredients and heartwarming stories.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cauldron or stockpot
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large potato, diced
• 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
• 2 cups diced tomatoes
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup green peas
• 1 cup corn kernels
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
• 3 stones (cleaned thoroughly)

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in the cauldron over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
• Add carrots, celery, potato, parsnip, zucchini, and green beans. Stir and cook for 5 minutes.
• Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
• Add the stones to the pot, stirring in the magic of the legendary tale.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
• Stir in green peas and corn, allowing them to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, and add fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.
• Remove the stones before serving. Ladle the Stone Soup into bowls, creating a communal experience around the cauldron.

Serving Suggestion:

Pair this enchanting Stone Soup with a rustic and comforting Hearty Country Bread. Here’s a simple recipe for baking it at home:

Hearty Country Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
• Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until smooth.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
• Punch down the dough and shape it into a rustic round loaf.
• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
• Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing.
• Spread the slices liberally with fresh butter and serve alongside the Stone Soup for a delightful and heartwarming meal.

Dinner Theater

Add a touch of whimsy to your gathering by engaging in a little dinner theater. Gather your guests around the table and take turns reading aloud the enchanting legend of Stone Soup. You can find the story in the January issue of GreenPrints magazine. Let the narrative weave its magic, enhancing the sense of community and shared experience as you enjoy the hearty meal together.

 
This legendary Stone Soup feast is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to build connections, share stories, and create lasting bonds. As the flavors meld and the warmth of friendship fills the air, you’ll find that the magic of Stone Soup extends far beyond the cauldron, leaving everyone nourished in body and spirit. Cheers to good food, good company, and the timeless tales that bring us together!