BEETROOT SOUP WITH CHIVES

My Mum started making beetroot soup for dinner parties in the 1980s and back then I thought the vivid pink concoction was the epitome of chic. I still do, and love it that something so stunning can be that good for you. SERVES 8-10 900g (2lb) whole raw beetroot 25g (1oz) butter 225g (8oz) onions, chopped 1.2 litres (2 pints) chicken or vegetable stock 110ml (4fl oz) cream or milk, or a mixture sea salt and freshly ground black pepper TO SERVE 110g (4oz) sour cream or crème fraîche 2 tbsp finely chopped chives