Cumin-Scented Peach Soup with Crème Fraîche

  • 2 lbs ripe yellow peaches
  • 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
  • 2 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 5 Tbsp crème fraîche
  • 1 tsp toasted cumin, ground
  • Dash of sea salt
  • Fresh mint (optional)
  • Spicy maple sliced almonds (optional)

Plunge peaches into a pot of boiling water, allow to simmer for about 30 seconds, then drain.  When peaches are cool enough to handle, peel, remove pit, coarsely chop and place in a large bowl.  Add rest of ingredients and puree using a hand-held or table top blender.  Taste for seasoning, adjusting with more maple syrup, lemon juice, or toasted cumin if needed, depending on sweetness of peaches.  Chill thoroughly before serving.  May be garnished with a mint sprig or purchased spicy maple sliced almonds, if desired.