Cream of Asparagus Soup: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe
Asparagus is a delicious vegetable that is enjoyed by many during the springtime. It’s a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes and pairs well with many other ingredients. Today, I want to share with you my recipe for Cream of Asparagus Soup–a vegan take on a classic favorite that is sure to impress your taste buds!
This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of asparagus but want to enjoy it in a different way. It’s creamy, filling, and bursting with flavor–all while being completely vegan. Made with fresh asparagus stalks, garlic, onions, and vegetable broth, this soup is both healthy and comforting.
So whether you’re looking for a new soup recipe to add to your collection or simply want to try something different with asparagus, this vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Asparagus is truly a versatile vegetable, but when it is blended into a Cream of Asparagus Soup, it becomes the perfect comfort food that satisfies even the fussiest eaters. The vegan version of this classic soup is ideal for those who want to enjoy a tasty and healthful meal without any animal products.
You will absolutely love this recipe because it is loaded with fresh asparagus, onions, and garlic that come together in a creamy, velvety texture that delights your senses. Moreover, the rich flavor profile of this soup gets a boost from tamari or soy sauce and dried basil that are folded in during the cooking process. These ingredients subtly enhance the umami and savory qualities of the dish to make sure you crave every bite.
Also, the convenience factor cannot be overlooked as it can be made ahead and reheated with ease. Whether you are craving something warm and soothing on a chilly winter day or looking for an elegant starter or side dish for your special dinner party, this vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup is the perfect recipe for you!
Ingredient List
Fresh Asparagus: This recipe calls for 2 pounds of fresh asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into pieces.
Vegetable Broth: Use 4 cups of vegetable broth to give the soup its rich base.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to roast the asparagus and an additional 1 tablespoon, divided, for sautéing onion and garlic.
Onion and Garlic: These two aromatic vegetables add depth of flavor to the soup. Dice one medium onion, chop 3 stalks celery, and mince 3 cloves garlic.
Unbleached Flour: We’ll use 3 tablespoons of unbleached flour to thicken the soup. It’s a great substitute for all-purpose flour.
Soy Milk or Other Non-Dairy Milk: Feel free to use soy milk or other non-dairy milk of your choice in place of regular milk. The recipe calls for 1 cup.
Tamari or Soy Sauce: Either tamari or soy sauce can be used to add umami flavor to this recipe, using only 1 tablespoon.
Dried Basil: Use 1 teaspoon dried basil, which has a slightly sweet and warm flavor, adding complex notes.
These ingredients make up the foundation of a creamy asparagus soup that is both healthy and satisfying.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup.
Step 1: Prep the asparagus
Wash the 2 pounds of asparagus and trim off the woody ends. Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces and set the tips aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 medium diced onion, 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the asparagus
Add the chopped asparagus (save the tips), and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Then add 4 cups of vegetable broth, bring to a boil and then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and fully cooked.
Step 4: Blend the soup
Let the soup cool down slightly before proceeding to blend it in batches in a blender or with an immersion blender until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids!
Step 5: Finish the soup
Return blended soup back to pot and stir in 1 cup of soy milk. Now add your reserved asparagus tips and cook for an additional 5 minutes until tender.
Step 6: Serve hot
Serve the soup hot with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh cracked pepper, or some roasted asparagus spears on top for garnish.
Enjoy your delicious, healthy vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup recipe is that it provides a lot of flexibility for substitutions and variations. Here are some ideas to try for your next batch:
– Coconut milk instead of soy milk: If you want a richer, creamier texture, coconut milk can be a great substitute for soy milk. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor to the soup.
– Gluten-free flour instead of unbleached flour: For those who are gluten-sensitive or have celiac disease, choosing a gluten-free flour ensures that everyone can enjoy this soup without any discomfort.
– Tamari instead of soy sauce: Although both sauces are made from fermented soybeans, tamari has a richer and less salty taste than soy sauce. This makes it an excellent substitute for people who prefer a milder flavor.
– Roasted asparagus instead of fresh asparagus: Instead of sautéing fresh asparagus in olive oil, try roasting it beforehand. The roasted asparagus adds depth and sweetness to the soup while still maintaining its green color.
– Cashew cream instead of soy milk: For an even creamier texture, cashew cream is an excellent alternative to soy milk. Simply soak 1 cup of cashews in water overnight, drain them, and blend them with 1 cup of water until smooth.
– Green asparagus instead of white asparagus: Although white asparagus is often favored in traditional French cuisine, green asparagus is more widely available and can be used in this recipe just the same.
These substitutions will help you customize your Cream of Asparagus Soup recipe to your own preferences or dietary requirements. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other vegetables or herbs to create your perfect blend!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve made this delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup, it’s time to serve and pair it in the best way possible. This soup is creamy, savory and delicious on its own or paired with some complementary dishes.
For starters, adding a touch of dried basil or soy sauce can elevate the flavors further. Serve the soup with some hearty bread such as sourdough or baguette. Toasted croutons or crispy cracker on top of the soup can add another layer of texture and flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
If you’re looking for an entrée to pair with this soup, roasted vegetables such as sweet potato, pumpkin, or cauliflower will match perfectly. Grilled tofu or tempeh will add plant-based protein to the meal. A simple side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes and vinaigrette dressing is also a great option.
To create a more sophisticated pairing experience consider serving the cream of asparagus soup followed by a main dish like vegan paella or vegetable pot pies for that full course restaurant experience.
Last but not least don’t forget dessert! Finish off your meal with something light like fresh fruit salad or rich like coconut milk based ice cream. Whatever your choice – sit back and relish your vegan masterpiece served with your cream of asparagus soup.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the advantages of this Cream of Asparagus Soup recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. I personally like to prepare a big batch of this soup on the weekend and then divide it into individual containers to use as a quick and easy lunch option throughout the week.
To make it ahead, just follow the recipe as instructed until you reach the point where you would normally serve the soup. Instead, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or in the freezer for up to three months.
When reheating, transfer the desired amount of soup to a pot and warm it over medium-low heat until heated through. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pot. If the soup becomes too thick after storage, simply add a bit of vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
This vegan Cream of Asparagus Soup also reheats beautifully in an instant pot or slow cooker. Simply add the desired amount of soup along with a bit of extra vegetable broth and heat on low for 2-3 hours.
With these make-ahead and reheating tips, you can enjoy this delicious and healthy vegan cream asparagus soup anytime without compromising on freshness or quality.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want to achieve the perfect creamy texture and rich flavor in your Cream of Asparagus Soup, then these tips are for you!
First things first, make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. This will enhance the taste of your soup and bring out the flavors of your aromatics.
Secondly, take care when cooking the asparagus, which is the star of the show in this recipe. Avoid overcooking it as this will result in a mushy texture and a dull green color. Instead, aim for tender-crisp and bright green stalks that retain their shape and nutritional value.
Don’t be afraid to season your soup generously with herbs and aromatics such as garlic, onion, and dried basil. These ingredients add depth and complexity to your cream of asparagus soup.
If you’re following a vegan diet or want to keep this recipe dairy-free, opt for non-dairy alternatives such as soymilk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. You’ll get a similar creamy texture without any animal byproducts.
Remember to adjust the consistency of the soup according to your preference. If you like a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Lastly, use olive oil instead of butter to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing taste. Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor with heart-healthy benefits.
Follow these tips for optimal results every time you make this delicious Cream of Asparagus Soup!
Bottom Line
: In conclusion, this cream of asparagus soup recipe is perfect for vegans and anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal. With its rich and creamy texture, paired with the savory flavors of garlic and onions, you’ll definitely fall in love with this dish.
By using fresh and wholesome ingredients, such as asparagus and soy milk, you can enjoy a hearty and filling meal that’s also packed with essential nutrients.
So why not give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for yourself, this vegan cream of asparagus soup will impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
I hope my detailed instructions and tips have been helpful in guiding you through the recipe process. Don’t hesitate to experiment with substitutions and variations to suit your personal preferences. Enjoy your delicious bowl of creamy vegan asparagus soup!
Cream of Asparagus Soup (vegan) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bunch asparagus (frozen works fine)
- 1 large onion, sliced in large slices
- 1 -5 clove garlic
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup unbleached flour
- 2 1/2 cups soymilk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or 2 tablespoons tamari
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Chop the asparagus (if using frozen, steam or microwave it a little first), reserving the tips.
- Put the asparagus, onion, garlic and broth in a large saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Put contents of saucepan into blender.
- Add the flour, soy milk, soy sauce and basil.
- Process until smooth.
- Return the soup to the saucepan and add the asparagus tips.
- Cook over medium heat until the soup thickens and is heated through.
- Season to taste with salt and fresh cracked pepper and serve.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.