Creamy Carrot Soup
["1 small onion, sliced", "2 tsp. cooking oil", "1 lb. carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks", "1 (14 1/2 oz.) can chicken broth", "1/2 c. water", "1/2 tsp. curry powder, grated fresh ginger root, dried thyme, marjoram or basil, crushed", "1/4 c. milk", "1/4 tsp. salt", "1/8 tsp. pepper", "sour cream (optional)"]
["Cook the onion in hot oil in a medium saucepan until tender, but not brown.", "Add carrots, chicken or vegetable broth, water and desired herb or spice.", "Bring to a boil; reduce heat.", "Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes or until carrots are tender.", "Pour half of carrot mixture in a blender container.", "Cover; blend until the mixture is smooth.", "Repeat with remaining mixture.", "Return to saucepan.", "Add milk.", "Cook until heated through.", "Season to taste with salt and pepper.", "To garnish, swirl a dollop of sour cream atop each serving of soup, if desired."]
["onion", "cooking oil", "carrots", "chicken broth", "water", "curry powder", "milk", "salt", "pepper", "sour cream"]