Chilled Asparagus Soup recipe
information
Thick-stemmed, succulent asparagus from the eastern counties is always a treat, and here the superb flavour shines out. Go for tight heads, fresh-looking stalks and a good colour when shopping. Chilled soup makes an excellent start to a dinner party on a warm evening and this one, with its pretty green colour and luxurious consistency, is a particularly good choice.
ingredients
method
1. Cut the heads off the asparagus and simmer them very gently in salted water for 3-5 minutes, until just tender. Drain well and refresh with cold water.
2. Scrape the asparagus stalks with a potato peeler or knife to remove any scales and cut off the woody ends. Thinly slice the stalks.
3. Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the asparagus stalks and onions, cover and cook for 5-10 minutes, until beginning to soften.
4. Add the stock and season to taste. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the asparagus and onion are tender.
5. Allow to cool slightly, then puree in a blender or food processor until smooth. Sieve to remove any stringy particles, then stir in the cream.
6. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Serve, garnished with the reserved asparagus tips and grated lemon rind.
serving amount
serves 6 (as a starter)
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