Puréed Winter Vegetable Soup

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 cups chopped leeks, sliced
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic
1 very large or 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 small celery root, peeled and cubed
1 carrot or turnip, peeled and cubed
½ cup dry sherry
4 cups vegetable broth (recommend Imagine No-Chicken stock)
4 cups water
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
Black pepper to taste

Heat the oil over medium heat in a heavy pot or dutch oven. Add leeks, bell pepper and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft and starting to brown, about 10 minutes.

Add the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are very tender, about 40 minutes.

Let cool, then puree in a food processor or blender until very smooth, adding water or broth if the soup seems too thick.  Reheat and serve.

Serves 4-6