Sichuan Carrot Soup

Heat canola oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, celery and garlic and cook, stirring, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Add broth, carrots, ginger and crushed red pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until the carrots are very tender, 20 to 30 minutes.

Pour the mixture through a strainer set over a large bowl. Transfer the solids to a food processor or blender and add lime juice, soy sauce, peanut butter, sugar and sesame oil; puree, adding some of the cooking liquid as needed for a smooth consistency. Transfer the puree to the bowl of cooking liquid and stir in milk. Season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate until chilled, at least 1 hour. Garnish each portion with scallions.