Today, May 25, is the 76th birthday of Sir Ian McKellen. He is widely known as one of the world’s best actors, and one of his best known roles is Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings films. The Lord of the Rings has inspired many artists, some of whom might be considered to have a Thelemic bent — including Led Zeppelin and Rush. Also inspired by Lord of the Rings is this delicious recipe.
Mushroom Soup from the Inn at Bree
- ½ lbs finely chopped mushrooms
- 6 tbs butter
- 1 tbs chopped onion
- 2 cups finely chopped carrots
- 2 cups finely chopped celery
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 3 ½ cups water
- 2 ½ cups beef broth (vegetarians: use vegetable broth instead)
- 8 oz can tomato paste
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- ½ lbs sliced mushrooms
- ¼ cup dry sherry
Melt 4 tbs butter in a large saucepan and then finely chopped mushrooms, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, water, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat. Simmer for one hour.
When mixture has cooled slightly, puree and keep warm.
Saute 1/2 pound of sliced mushrooms in 2 tbs of butter for about 5 minutes. Add to the soup along with 1/4 cup of dry sherry. Heat thoroughly and serve.
Adapted from Middle Earth Recipes.
