Cream of Asparagus Soup

As the sun sets and the day winds down, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of warmth to bring comfort to your evening. Cream of Asparagus Soup, with its velvety texture and delicate flavors, is the perfect choice for a soothing and satisfying dinner. Join us as we embark on a culinary journey to create a bowl of goodness that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. Let’s dive into the heartwarming experience of crafting a Dinner Tonight favorite: Cream of Asparagus Soup.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Asparagus:
   • Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim the tough ends. Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces, reserving a few tips for garnish.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
   • In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Asparagus:
   • Introduce the chopped asparagus to the pot. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes until the asparagus starts to soften.
4. Make the Roux:
   • Sprinkle flour over the asparagus mixture and stir continuously to create a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw taste of the flour.
5. Simmer with Broth:
   • Slowly pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the asparagus is tender.
6. Blend to Smooth Consistency:
   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
7. Incorporate Cream and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the heavy cream, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • In a separate pan, blanch the reserved asparagus tips in boiling water for 2 minutes until bright green. Use them as a garnish along with fresh chives when serving the Cream of Asparagus Soup.

Cook Notes:

• Consistency Control: Achieve your desired soup thickness by adjusting the amount of flour or broth during cooking.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Asparagus: While fresh asparagus is preferred, frozen asparagus can be a convenient substitute. Ensure it’s thawed before use.
• Nutritional Boost: For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.
• Soup Storage: Cream of Asparagus Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Variations:

Mushroom Infusion:

• Enhance the flavor by sautéing a cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic.

Lemon Zest Brightness:

• Add a teaspoon of freshly grated lemon zest just before serving for a citrusy twist.

Potato Creaminess:

• Include a peeled and diced potato during the simmering process for a creamier texture.

Keto Version:

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to maintain a keto-friendly carb count.
• Opt for a lower-carb alternative to onions, such as shallots, and use them in moderation.
• Choose a keto-friendly thickener like xanthan gum if you prefer a thicker consistency without added carbs.

Low-Carb Version:

• Adjust the quantity of onions and carrots to reduce the overall carbohydrate content.
• Use a lower-carb alternative for the flour in the roux, such as almond flour or coconut flour.
• Limit the intake of heavy cream and opt for a combination of unsweetened almond milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

As the day concludes and the evening beckons, treat yourself to the heartwarming embrace of Cream of Asparagus Soup. This culinary masterpiece not only delights the palate but also offers a moment of tranquility in the midst of life’s hustle and bustle. So, gather around the table, savor each spoonful, and let the nourishing warmth of this comforting soup make your Dinner Tonight a truly memorable experience.