Instructions: In a large saucepan combine 1 cup broth, onion and thyme. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes. Cool slightly.

Transfer broth mixture to a blender container. Add sweet potatoes.

Cover;blend till smooth. Return to pan. Add undrained pears to blender container; cover and blend till smooth. Add pears to pan. Stir remaining broth, half and half to light crean and pepper into pan. Cook and stir till heated through. Serve with Pepper Croutons. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme.

Makes 8 to 10 side-dish servings.

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