Easy, Delicious, Buttery Cream of Asparagus Soup

• 1/2 stick unsalted butter
• 1/2 onion, chopped, (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 pounds asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 1-pint sour cream, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons Hungarian hot paprika, for garnish

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic, and saute for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Add asparagus and saute another 4 minutes. Transfer to your VitaClay pot.
2. Add the chicken stock and cook on "stew" for 30 minutes or until asparagus is very tender.
3. Transfer to a blender and puree until smooth. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to serving bowls. Dust with paprika and serve.

Note: When blending hot liquids: Remove liquid from the heat and allow to cool for at least 5 minutes. Transfer liquid to a blender or food processor and fill it no more than halfway. If using a blender, release one corner of the lid. This prevents the vacuum effect that creates heat explosions. Place a towel over the top of the machine, pulse a few times then process on high speed until smooth.