Potato and Garlic Soup with Herbs

Ingredients

 * 2 tablespoons olive oil (preferably extra-virgin)
 * 1 cup chopped onions
 * 4 cups canned low sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
 * 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled,cut into 1/2 inch pieces
 * 6 cloves garlic, peeled
 * 1 bay leaf
 * 1/4 cup minced chives or green onions
 * 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 3/4 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions
Heat olive oil in heavy large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, sauté until golden, about 10 minutes. Add broth, potatoes, garlic and bay leaf; bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer until potatoes are very tender, about 20 minutes. Cool slightly. Discard bay leaf. Coarsely puree soup in blender 1 cup at a time, about 20 seconds per batch (do not overprocess). Return soup to same saucepan. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer until heated through. Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with chives and thyme and serve.