Asparagus Soup

This luscious and creamy soup delivers so much flavor and tastes especially delicious when local asparagus is in season. Want to make it extra, extra special? Add a scoop of crabmeat to each bowl before serving.


Asparagus Soup

Servings 6

Ingredients

  • 3 lb. fresh asparagus
  • 8 cups chicken stock
  • 4 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots
  • 1 cup finely chopped leeks, white parts only, rinsed well
  • 2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
  • 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper (more to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp. salt (more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup half-n-half
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  • Snap off the woody stems from each asparagus spear and set aside. Trim the attractive tips from each spear and set aside. Cut the remaining tender stalks into 1/2 inch pieces and set aside.
  • In a medium pot, bring the chicken stock to a boil.
  • Add the tough woody asparagus stems. Reduce heat to low and simmer the stems to infuse their flavor into the broth – about 20 minutes.
  • Remove the stems with a slotted spoon and discard them. Reserve the broth.
  • Bring the broth back to a boil and add the asparagus tips. Blanch the tips just until they are tender – about 1 minute.
  • Remove the tips from the stock with a slotted spoon to an ice water bath. When tips are completely cool drain and set aside. Reserve the stock.
  • In a second medium stock pot, melt the butter over medium heat. When butter begins to foam, add the leeks and shallots. Sauté for 3 minutes, then add the garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute.
  • Add the chopped asparagus stalks, white pepper, and reserved chicken stock. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes or until the asparagus is very tender.
  • With an immersion blender or in batches in a food processor, puree the soup until it is smooth.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Just before serving, stir in the half-n-half and most of the asparagus tips (reserve a few for garnishing the bowls).
  • Ladle hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of cheese and a few asparagus tips.
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