Golden-Lentil-and-Leek Soup

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat until the rice is tender, about 45 minutes; drain well.

Meanwhile, in a very large pot, heat the olive oil and safflower oil. Add the leeks and 1 teaspoon of the salt, cover and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the fennel, garlic and the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt, cover and cook, stirring a few times, until softened, about 7 minutes.

Add the lentils, turmeric and 16 cups of water and bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the lentils have broken down, about 30 minutes. Stir in the nutritional yeast and the cooked rice and simmer for 5 minutes.

Using an immersion blender, gently puree the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a toasted baguette slice and a drizzle of Spicy Scallion Oil.