GARLIC BACON POTATO SOUP

Steps:

• Remove the outer skin from the garlic bulbs, but do not peel or separate the cloves.
• Wrap each bulb separately in foil.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hours.
• Remove to a wire rack & let cool for 10 minute.
• Separate the cloves & squeeze to extract 1/4 C garlic pulp. Discard the skins.
• Cook the bacon in a large saucepan over medium-high heat until crisp.
• Add the onion, carrot, & minced garlic and saute for 5 minutes.
• Add the potatoes, broth & bay leaf.
• Season with salt & pepper.
• Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and cook, covered, for 20 min or until the potatoes are tender.
• Remove the bay leaf and stir in the rosemary.
• Puree 2 cups of the soup with the garlic pulp in a food processor or blender and then return to the saucepan.
• Stir in the half & half.
• Simmer over low heat until hot.
• Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.