Lou'S Chayote Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 scallions, sliced
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 chili pepper, slit
1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 1/2 lbs chayotes
2 cups chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon fresh oregano
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, whole
salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Peel, pit and quarter chayote, then cut into 1/2-inch pieces.
Cook scallions, garlic, and chili in butter in a heavy 3 quart saucepan over moderately low heat, stirring, until softened.
Stir in allspice and cumin; cook 1 minute.
Add chayote, oregano and half of the cilantro and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
Add chicken broth and simmer, covered, until chayotes are very tender, about 20 minutes.
Remove from heat and discard chili pepper.
Stir in remaining cilantro.
Puree soup in a blender until smooth.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.