Mushroom Soup with Nori Sesame Croutons

Serves 3 to 4

For the soup

300g chestnut or button mushrooms

2 garlic cloves, chopped

½ tsp paprika

1 medium potato, peeled and dice small

250 to 300ml vegetable stock, depending on how thick you like your soup Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the croutons

150g stale sourdough or baguette, torn into pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

2 nori sheets, cut into shreds

1 tbsp sesame seeds

Heat a little oil in a large saucepan, add the garlic, paprika, mushrooms and diced potatoes, sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring from time to time.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Pour in the stock and leave to simmer for 10 minutes.

Pour into a blender and puree until smooth.

Preheat the oven to 190°C/fan 170°C/gas 5.

For the croutons, place the torn bread pieces onto a baking tray.

Drizzle over the oil, season with salt and pepper.

Add the nori shreds and sesame seeds and mix well.

Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning from time to time, keep an eye on them.

Ladle into soup bowls and serve with the croutons.