PUMPKIN AND RICE SOUP

Steps:

• Cook the rice according to package directions; fluff and set aside.
• Meanwhile, pulse the tomato paste, vinegar, raisins, curry powder, red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup of the peanuts and 2 tablespoons water in a food processor until a coarse paste forms, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
• Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the paste and cook, stirring frequently, until the oil begins to separate and the paste is brick red, 6 to 8 minutes. (Add a tablespoons or two of water if the paste sticks to the bottom of the pan at all.) Add the chicken broth, pumpkin puree and 2 cups water and whisk until blended. Bring to a simmer, whisking occasionally, and continue simmering until the soup has thickened slightly, 30 to 40 minutes. Stir in about three-quarters of the cooked rice and adjust the seasoning with salt.
• Serve the soup topped equally with the remaining rice and 1/4 cup peanuts. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and the chives.