TOMATO-GIN SOUP

INGREDIENTS
1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
2 lbs. tomatoes, cut in half
1 white potato, peeled and cut in chunks
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves
salt and white pepper to taste
1 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup gin
dash nutmeg
whipped cream and chopped chives for garnish

1. In a large skillet, saute the onions in the butter over medium heat until the onion is soft but not browed.
2. Add the tomatoes, potato, chicken broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer 30 minutes. Remove the bay leaves. Puree the soup in several batches in food processor or blender; put through a strainer.
3. Return the strained mixture to a saucepan and stir in the cream and gin. Add the nutmeg and simmer an adddition 10 minutes.
4. Serve hot with a dollop of whipped cream and a spinkling of chives.