Corn-Acopia Soup

Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons corn oil
• 3 cups canned tomatoes, diced
• 3/4 cup green beans, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell peppers, chopped
• 5 ears fresh corn kernels, cut off the cobs
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• 1 teaspoon Cajun spice blend
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 dashes red pepper sauce
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped, for garnish

Directions

In a large stock pot over low heat, saute the garlic in oil for 1 minute. Stir in all the vegetables and cook for 5 minutes. Turn up the heat, add the broth and bring to a boil.

Add lemon juice and seasonings. Reduce heat and simmer gently, covered, for 30 minutes. Serve with chopped cilantro and tortilla chips.