If you prefer to puree the soup before serving, you can blend the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender.
For a dairy-free option, you can omit the rind in step 2. Whisk in 2 Tablespoons of white miso paste, or more to taste into the soup just before serving. Alternatively, scoop out ½ - 1 cup of liquid from the soup and blend with miso in a blender until smooth. Pour miso mixture back into pot and serve.