Asparagus cream soup

Asparagus cream soup – a delicacy that combines the freshness of vegetables with a creamy and comforting taste, perfect for any meal. This recipe is not just a simple soup; it is a culinary journey that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you enjoy it on a cool spring day or at an elegant dinner, asparagus cream soup will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of joy to your table.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 450 g fresh asparagus
- 1 large onion (preferably white for a sweeter taste)
- 2 stalks of celery
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 350 ml chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 heaping tablespoon of Greek yogurt
- 25 g butter
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper

Recipe Story

Asparagus cream soup has deep roots in culinary culture, often associated with spring when asparagus is in season. This delicate vegetable is appreciated not only for its subtle taste but also for its nutritional benefits. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as antioxidants. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, providing an excellent way to include fresh vegetables in your daily diet.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing the asparagus well and peeling it. Cut off the tips and reserve them for garnish, while the rest of the stalks should be cut into pieces about 3-4 cm long. Chop the onion and celery finely, and slice the garlic thinly, so the flavors can be released quickly during cooking.

2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This will form the flavorful base of your soup.

3. Add the garlic
Now it’s time to add the sliced garlic. Sauté it together with the onion and celery for one minute, being careful not to burn it, as garlic can become bitter.

4. Simmer the ingredients
Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

5. Add the asparagus
Now, add the asparagus pieces to the pot. Cover again and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender. Check with a fork – it should be easy to pierce.

6. Blend the soup
Once the asparagus is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, blend everything until you achieve a smooth cream. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender, being careful not to burn yourself.

7. Finish the soup
After achieving a creamy consistency, add the Greek yogurt, dissolved with 3-4 tablespoons of hot soup, to incorporate it evenly. Mix well to obtain a smooth texture. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.

8. Serve
Serve the soup in deep bowls, garnishing with the reserved asparagus tips. Add some crunchy croutons on top for extra texture. You can accompany the soup with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Useful Tips

- Choosing asparagus: When selecting asparagus, look for firm stalks with tight tips. Younger asparagus is more delicate and better for this soup.
- Vegan option: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and use soy yogurt for a 100% vegan option.
- Flavor boost: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a little lemon juice or a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for extra freshness.
- Wine pairing: Asparagus cream soup pairs excellently with a dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the delicate flavors of the asparagus.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long can the soup be stored?
Asparagus cream soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s important to reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly.

- Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze asparagus cream soup in small portions. When thawing, add a bit of fresh yogurt or cream to restore its creaminess.

- What other ingredients can I use?
You can experiment by adding potatoes for a richer texture, or you can try replacing some of the asparagus with green peas for a different flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Asparagus is high in fiber, aiding digestion, and Greek yogurt adds protein and beneficial probiotics for gut health. This makes asparagus cream soup an excellent choice for a light, nutritious, and flavorful meal.

Conclusion

Asparagus cream soup is not just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that combines the delicate flavors of fresh vegetables with a creamy and comforting texture. I invite you to try it and surprise your family or friends with this delicacy. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, each spoonful will bring a touch of spring to your plate. Enjoy!