Pureeing an aromatic rice adds a delicate flavor and creates a creamy, non-dairy base for this soup.  May be served without blending for a heartier texture. I found it delicious either way!

Equipment:

Cutting Board
Large Soup Pot
Blender

Ingredients:

2 pounds fresh asparagus
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 medium onions, chopped
2/3 cup uncooked, basmati or jasmine rice
2 low sodium vegetable bouillon cubes
2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp ground thyme
8 cups water

Directions:

1. Trim ends from asparagus and cut into 1/2 inch pieces, setting aside tips. (No need to set aside tips if you’re not going to blend the soup.)
2. Saute onions in oil in a large pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until soft.
3. Stir in asparagus pieces, rice, bouillon cubes, thyme and 8 cups water.  Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until rice is very tender.
4. Remove thyme sprigs.  Transfer soup to blender in batches and puree until smooth.
5. Return soup to pot and add reserved asparagus tips.  Simmer 1-2 minutes, then ladle into soup bowls and serve immediately.  Add sea salt to taste, if desired.