Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add asparagus and broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer until asparagus is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
6. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Heat the soup until hot, but do not boil.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Heat the soup until hot, but do not boil.
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 340
- Fat: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
- You can use half and half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Top with croutons or grated Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to trim the asparagus before cooking to remove the tough ends.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess.
- Don't overcook the asparagus to maintain its bright green color and fresh flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat until hot, stirring occasionally.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs
Pairings:
- Serve with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed green salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or cream to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the soup to a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Asparagus has been enjoyed for thousands of years and was prized by ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties.
Flavor profiles:
- This soup is creamy, savory, and slightly sweet with a fresh asparagus flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a starter or main course for a cozy and comforting meal.
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