Hearty Chicken and Orzo Soup w/ Ginger, Currants and Creme Fraiche

1 oz olive oil

1 large red onion, coarsely chopped

5 minced garlic cloves

18 oz boneless chicken breasts, cut in 1/2-inch pieces

1/2 oz grated fresh ginger

1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper

1 tablespoon curry powder

4 oz orzo pasta

2 oz dried currants

15 oz canned tomatoes, coarsely chopped

32 oz chicken broth

6 oz creme fraiche

20-30 cilantro leaves

Heat oil in pan. Add the onion and cook until it softens. Add the chicken breasts, ginger, red pepper and curry. Cook until the chicken is almost done. Add the orzo pasta, currants, tomatoes and broth.

Put into bowls, top with a tablespoon of creme fraiche and optionally garnish with cilantro.

Serves 8-10 as a first course.