When it comes to a delicious and heartwarming meal, nothing quite hits the spot like a creamy asparagus soup. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this soup offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delectable soup step by step, from gathering the ingredients to serving the final product. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this creamy and satisfying soup!
Introduction
Asparagus soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, offering a creamy and savory experience. This recipe focuses on creating a smooth, hearty soup using white asparagus, which has a milder and more delicate flavor compared to its green counterpart. With the addition of shallots, ham, eggs, and a rich cream base, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or an elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
Let’s start by gathering the ingredients you’ll need to make this delightful soup:
- 2 shallots
- 700 g white asparagus (peeled)
- 2 cubes of chicken stock (Maggi)
- 1,500 ml of water
- 200 ml of cooking cream or whipped cream
- 80 g of flour (or cornstarch)
- 70 g of butter
- Optional:
- 2 eggs
- 150 g strips of ham
- Fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients will combine to create a rich and flavorful asparagus soup that you’ll love.
Preparation
To make the cooking process as smooth as the soup itself, follow these preparation steps:
- Prepare the Asparagus: Peel and cut the asparagus into pieces.
- Chop the Shallots: Finely chop the shallots for sautéing.
- Prepare Optional Ingredients: If using eggs and ham, boil the eggs and cut the ham into strips.
By getting everything ready before cooking, you’ll have an easier time following the recipe and creating a delicious dish.
Cooking the Asparagus
First, let’s cook the asparagus:
- In a large pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil.
- Add the cut asparagus to the boiling water and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Allow the asparagus to cook in the water for an additional 10 minutes, ensuring it becomes tender.
Once the asparagus is cooked, drain it and set aside the cooking liquid for later use.
Creating the Roux
Now that the asparagus is cooked, let’s move on to creating the roux:
- In a soup pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped shallots and sauté them until they become translucent.
- Stir in the flour (or cornstarch) to form a roux, and cook it gently for 5 minutes.
The roux serves as the base for the soup, providing a rich and creamy texture.
Combining Ingredients
After creating the roux, it’s time to combine all the ingredients:
- Dissolve the chicken stock cubes in the reserved cooking liquid from the asparagus.
- Slowly pour the stock mixture into the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Once all the stock is added, stir in the cooking cream and the cooked asparagus.
Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Seasoning and Garnishing
Now that your soup base is ready, taste it to see if any additional seasoning is needed. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Here’s where you can also add the optional ingredients:
- Add Ham Strips: Partially add the ham strips to the soup for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the soup into bowls, and garnish with pieces of egg, ham strips, and finely chopped parsley.
These additions bring an extra layer of flavor and presentation to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Asparagus soup is best enjoyed warm and can be served as a starter or main course. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This soup also makes a great option for special occasions or holiday dinners.
Conclusion
Asparagus soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. By following this recipe, you can create a smooth and flavorful soup that will impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients to suit your tastes, and enjoy the cozy comfort of this classic dish.
FAQs
- Can I use green asparagus instead of white asparagus?
- Absolutely! While white asparagus offers a milder flavor, green asparagus can also be used for a different taste and color.
- How long does asparagus soup last in the fridge?
- Asparagus soup can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze asparagus soup?
- Yes, you can freeze asparagus soup for up to three months. Make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing it in an airtight container.
- What can I use as a substitute for chicken stock cubes?
- You can use vegetable or beef stock cubes as a substitute, depending on your preference. Alternatively, you can use homemade stock for a richer flavor.
- Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
- Yes! You can omit the ham and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to make a vegetarian version of this soup.
With these answers, you should be well-equipped to create and enjoy a delicious bowl of creamy asparagus soup!