Jean-Georges's Minimalist Rhubarb Soup

Preparation

1. Step 1

   String the rhubarb, then cut it into roughly 2-inch lengths.

2. Step 2

   Place 4 cups water in a saucepan and add the sugar; turn the heat to medium high. Split the vanilla beans lengthwise and scrape out the seeds; add both seeds and pods to the pot. When the water boils, turn the heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes, then add the rhubarb. Cook another 5 minutes or so, until the rhubarb begins to fall apart.

3. Step 3

   Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, remove the vanilla pods and break up the hunks of rhubarb with a whisk. Serve cold, with slices of strawberry and mango, any sorbet, a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, or on its own.