1.   Slightly spicy and redolent with cilantro, the velvety soup also contained chopped tomatoes, corn, carrots, celery and onion.

2.   A velvety cold avocado soup is rich enough that a recipe for four serves six, though it needs a splash of lime to punch it up.

3.   In Tuscany, passato is a thoroughly smooth, velvety soup made from well-seasoned cooked beans.

4.   Simmered briefly and pureed, the velvety soup has the depth and well-knit flavor that so many foods develop the second day.