Beet, Ginger, and Coconut Milk Soup

INGREDIENTS

• Canned julienned beets (optional)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) low-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Parsley (optional)
• Crusty bread (optional)
• 3 large red beets, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 5 cups vegetable stock, divided