Spinach Potato Soup pairs beautifully with N.K. Jemisin's 'The City We Became' and a refreshing White Wine Spritzer. The comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of the soup complement the adventurous and imaginative themes of Jemisin's novel, offering a cozy and indulgent reading experience. Meanwhile, the White Wine Spritzer adds a touch of refreshing crispness, making the entire experience delightful for a cozy afternoon or evening.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 5 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Croutons or crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to coat them in the oil and onion mixture. Pour in the broth and add the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the Spinach: Once the potatoes are cooked through, add the chopped spinach to the pot. Stir and let the spinach wilt, which should take just a few minutes.
- Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend just a portion of the soup. If using a countertop blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.
- Finish the Soup: If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the milk or cream at this point. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with croutons or serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your warm and nourishing Spinach Potato Soup!
The City We Became
Five New Yorkers must come together to defend their city from an ancient evil in this stunning fantasy novel from the three-time Hugo Award-winning author N.K. Jemisin.
Three-time Hugo Award-winning and New York Times bestselling author N.K. Jemisin crafts her most incredible novel yet, a "glorious" story of culture, identity, magic, and myths in contemporary New York City. In Manhattan, a young grad student gets off the train and realizes he doesn't remember who he is, where he's from, or even his own name. But he can sense the beating heart of the city, see its history, and feel its power. In the Bronx, a Lenape gallery director discovers strange graffiti scattered throughout the city, so beautiful and powerful it's as if the paint is literally calling to her. In Brooklyn, a politician and mother finds she can hear the songs of her city, pulsing to the beat of her Louboutin heels. And they're not the only ones. Every great city has a soul. Some are ancient as myths, and others are as new and destructive as children. New York? She's got six. For more from N. K. Jemisin, check out: The Inheritance Trilogy The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms The Broken Kingdoms The Kingdom of Gods The Inheritance Trilogy (omnibus edition) Shades in Shadow: An Inheritance Triptych (e-only short fiction) The Awakened Kingdom (e-only novella) Dreamblood Duology The Killing Moon The Shadowed Sun The Dreamblood Duology (omnibus) The Broken Earth The Fifth Season The Obelisk Gate The Stone Sky How Long 'til Black Future Month? (short story collection) "A glorious fantasy." —Neil Gaiman
Discussion Questions
- How does N.K. Jemisin use the concept of a city being alive and conscious in the story? What does this say about urban life and culture?
- Discuss the significance of each character's relationship with their borough. How does that shape their identity and actions?
- The novel touches upon issues of race, gentrification, and politics in urban environments. How effectively does the book address these themes?
- In what ways do the characters represent different aspects of New York City?
- What is the role of art and artists in the story? How does it relate to the themes of creation and destruction?
- How does 'The City We Became' explore the theme of belonging and community?
- Jemisin uses a mixture of fantasy and reality in her storytelling. How does this blend impact the narrative and the reader's experience?
- Consider the antagonist's representation as 'The Woman in White'. What does she symbolize about external threats to the city?
- How does the book reflect Jemisin's views on the resilience of cities and their inhabitants?
- Discuss the ending of the novel. What do you think it suggests about the future of the city and its people?
Authors:
N. K. Jemisin
ISBN: 0316509841
Publisher: Orbit
Published Date: 2020-03-24
ISBN: 0316509841
Publisher: Orbit
Published Date: 2020-03-24
White Wine Spritzer
A light and refreshing beverage that's perfect for pairing with a comforting soup like Spinach Potato Soup. The spritz of soda adds a delightful fizz and complements the savory, hearty notes of the soup.
Ingredients
- 1 part white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 part club soda
- Lemon or lime slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass halfway with your favorite chilled white wine.
- Top with an equal part of club soda.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.