Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped asparagus and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender.
3. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
4. Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Heat over low heat until warmed through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Low heat for simmering and warming through
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken broth or water.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with croutons, chopped herbs, or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use fresh, tender asparagus for the best flavor.
- Reserve some chopped asparagus tips to use as a garnish.
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve before adding the cream.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls and garnish with chopped herbs or asparagus tips.
Garnishes:
- Chopped herbs, croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, or asparagus tips.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Mixed greens salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the asparagus thoroughly before using.
- Store leftover soup in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
Food history:
- Asparagus has been cultivated for thousands of years and was prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties.
Flavor profiles:
- Asparagus has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with creamy and savory ingredients.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a starter or main course.
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