Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      Tablespoon    Safflower oil
                        Carrots, grated
   1      medium        Onion, chopped
   4      Cups          Vegetable stock
   6      Ounces        Can Tomato Paste
   1      Tablespoon    Soy sauce
     1/2  Teaspoon      Thyme
     1/4  Teaspoon      Ground Cumin
     1/4  Teaspoon      Black Pepper

Preparation:

GARNISH: scallion curls or Herbed Garlic Croutons (optional). In Dutch oven or 4-5 qt saucepan, heat oil. Stir in carrots and onion; saute until tender, about 5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients, increase heat, and cover. When mixture reaches a boil, reduce heat to med and simmer for about 5 minutes. Top with garnish if desired. VARIATIONS: - add 1/2 cup raisins-cook soup until they are plump and tender.