Soups warm your heart as well as your stomach. A former caterer, Simonds answers questions such as, How do you simmer a sumptuous stock? What are the essential ingredients for creamy chowder? How do you build layers of flavor in a stew? Whether you're tempted to try an old favorite or one of Simonds's trademark innovative recipes, the author stresses that soups are best when made with the freshest ingredients from local producers.