Instructions: Melt butter in a pot. Add onions, leeks, shallots and garlic and cook covered for about 25 minutes-until tender. Add stock, thyme and bay leaf and season to taste with s & p. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cook for 20 minutes. Strain soup and transfer the solids to a food processor and puree. Return puree to the pot. For a party, I prepare soup to this point and then it can sit until you are almost ready to serve (I dont know-30 minutes?) Over medium heat, whisk in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add scallions and simmer for 5 minutes. Ladle into bowls and top with croutons and chives. This soup is wonderfully delicate and I serve it frequently in the summer with fish and a lightly steamed veggie. Silver Palate.Serves 4-

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