Creamy Asparagus Soup

Name: Creamy Asparagus Soup
Ingredients: 2 pounds asparagus , trimmed of woody stem bottoms; 1 large yellow onion , chopped (1 1/2 to 2 cups); 1 teaspoon minced garlic , or 1 tablespoon minced green garlic; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth (vegetarian option); 1 cup water; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat sour cream; 1 tablespoon dry vermouth; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper , more to taste; 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste