SILENT, COLD SOUP OF BEET PUREE

SERVES 6

When Peeta and Katniss joined Effie for dinner on the train back to the Capitol, the silence between them made for a very cold meal indeed. No one spent much time enjoying the food.

Cold soups are a traditional favorite in Scandinavian homes and are also seen in the Midwest. They’re refreshing as either an entrée or a starter, especially in the summer.

4 MEDIUM BEETS

4 CUPS BEEF BROTH

1 ONION, CHOPPED

2 TABLESPOONS RED WINE VINEGAR

½ TEASPOON SALT

¼ TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER

Trim the beets and remove the tops, but leave the skins.

In a stockpot, cover beets with cold water and bring to a boil.

Boil about 40 minutes.

Drain beets, but reserve 2 cups of the beet liquid.

Strain the liquid and add to a large saucepan.

Remove skin from beets with a peeler or the edge of a teaspoon.

Grate beets coarsely and add to beet liquid.

Add beef broth, onion, vinegar, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour, or until cold.