Carrot Ginger Soup

The ginger in this soup gives it a nice little kick. Though we suggest serving it hot, it can also be nice ice-cold on a hot summer day.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons (1⁄2 stick) butter
2 pounds carrots, cut into large dice (about 4 cups)
2 cups diced onions (medium dice)
1⁄4 cup (about 2 ounces) peeled and sliced fresh ginger
6 sprigs fresh thyme, tied in a bundle with kitchen twine
2 teaspoons salt
3⁄4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
6 cups water
Sour cream, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a 6-quart (or larger) soup pot over high heat. Add the carrots, onions, ginger, thyme bundle, salt, and white pepper, and cook for 2 minutes. Then add the water, cover the pot, and bring to a boil. Remove the cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15 minutes.

2. Remove the pot from the heat, and remove the thyme bundle. Blend the soup until it is completely smooth, using an immersion blender or in three batches in a blender (see Note).

3. Transfer the pureed soup to a 4-quart pot or other serving dish. Stir to combine, and adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Note: Please use caution when blending hot liquids; blend only small amounts at a time, with the blender tightly covered and a kitchen towel held over the top.

Yield: 2 1⁄2 quarts, about 6 servings