When pureeing hot soup, an immersion blender, like the Black+Decker Kitchen Wand, is a handy tool. You can puree right in the pan with little or no extra mess.
See Also
How to Use Flour or Cornstarch to Thicken Sauce, Gravy, and SoupThe 7 Biggest Mistakes You Make Cooking SoupHow to Thicken Soup: 17 Healthy Ways to Make Soup More CreamyOwner's Resources | Product Support | Frequently Asked QuestionsBuy a Cuisinart Immersion Blender from Amazon
Hot soup (or other hot liquids, for that matter) will steam and expand in the blender, which can push the top off and cause a mess and burn hazard.
When pureeing hot soup, do it in batches. Fill the blender 1/3 to 1/2 full, remove or loosen the center cap from the lid of the blender. Cover the lid with a folded dishcloth and hold it down when blending. Repeat with the remaining batches.
