Asparagus is one of the most delicious and nutritious vegetables you can enjoy in spring. It is rich in vitamin K, folate, fiber, and antioxidants, and has a delicate flavor that pairs well with many dishes. One of the best ways to savor asparagus is to make a creamy and comforting soup with it. And who better to teach us how to make the perfect asparagus soup than Mary Berry, the queen of British baking and cooking?
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s asparagus soup recipe, which is one of her absolute favorites. This soup is creamy, smooth, and bursting with fresh asparagus flavor. It is also easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and a blender. You can serve it hot or cold, as a starter or a main course, with crusty bread or croutons. It is a versatile and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends.
What is Mary Berry’s Asparagus Soup?
Mary Berry Asparagus Soup is a creamy and comforting soup made with fresh or frozen asparagus, onion, garlic, stock, cream, and seasonings. It is a simple and easy recipe that can be made in less than 30 minutes with a blender or an immersion blender. It is a perfect dish to enjoy in spring when asparagus is in season, or anytime you crave a warm and cozy soup.
Other Soup Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because:
- Simplicity at Its Best: With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is accessible to cooks of all levels.
- Spring on a Plate: The vibrant green of fresh asparagus not only adds a pop of color to your table but brings the fresh taste of spring into your home, regardless of the season.
- Versatility: Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated starter for your dinner party or a comforting weeknight dinner, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Asparagus Soup
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 pounds of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Asparagus Soup
Here are the steps to make Mary Berry’s asparagus soup recipe:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
- Ready the Asparagus: Wash and trim the woody ends from your asparagus, then chop into bite-sized pieces, reserving a few tips for garnish.
Step 2: Cooking the Soup
- Sauté the Base: In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
- Add Asparagus: Introduce the asparagus pieces to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook until the asparagus is vibrant green and slightly tender.
- Pour in Stock: Add your choice of vegetable or chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Let cook until the asparagus is fully tender.
- Blend to Perfection: Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a stand blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth.
- Final Touches: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, taking care not to let it boil.
Step 2: Serving Suggestions
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with a dollop of crème fraîche, chopped chives, or asparagus tips.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Asparagus Soup?
Creating a harmonious meal involves pairing your soup with dishes that enhance its flavors and textures. Consider these suggestions:
- Crunchy Croutons: Homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and can soak up the soup’s creamy goodness.
- Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: The light and zesty flavors of lemon herb chicken perfectly complement the creamy asparagus soup.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast to the soup’s richness.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Asparagus Soup
Achieving the perfect bowl of asparagus soup is easier than you think. Here are some expert tips:
- Quality Ingredients: The fresher the asparagus, the brighter your soup’s flavor will be.
- Low and Slow: Gently cook your onions and garlic to avoid browning; this ensures a sweet, not bitter, base.
- Silky Smooth: For an ultra-smooth soup, consider passing it through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
Variations of Mary Berry Asparagus Soup
Personalize your soup to suit your taste or add an exciting twist with these variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes while cooking to introduce a gentle heat.
- Gourmet Mushroom: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for an earthy depth and a chunkier texture.
- Roasted Garlic: Use roasted garlic instead of raw for a mellow, caramelized flavor profile.
How do I Store Mary Berry Asparagus Soup Leftovers?
Storing your soup properly ensures you can enjoy its freshness for days to come:
- Cool Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
- Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to keep the soup fresh and to avoid absorbing flavors from the fridge.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Asparagus Soup Leftovers?
Reheating your soup correctly can preserve its creamy texture and vibrant flavor:
- Stovetop Method: Warm the soup over a medium-low flame, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
- Microwave Option: For a quick option, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat.
Nutrition
Nutrition facts per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 149
- Fat: 9.6 g (5.8 g saturated, 2.7 g monounsaturated, 0.6 g polyunsaturated)
- Cholesterol: 31 mg
- Sodium: 516 mg
- Carbohydrates: 10.8 g (3.4 g fiber, 4.9 g sugar)
- Protein: 6.5 g
Other Mary Berry Soup Recipes
- Mary Berry Mushroom Soup
- Mary Berry Tomato and Basil Soup Recipe
- Mary Berry Roasted Tomato Soup
- Mary Berry Leek and Potato Soup
- How to Mary Berry Celery Soup
- Mary Berry Broccoli and Stilton Soup
- Mary Berry Cauliflower Recipe
- Mary Berry Beetroot Soup
- Make Mary Berry Chicken Noodle Soup
- Mary Berry Butternut Squash Soup
- Mary Berry Curried Parsnip Soup
FAQs
How do I choose the best asparagus for this soup?
For optimal taste, select asparagus that’s notably fresh, displaying a bright green hue and boasting firm, closed tips. As a quick test, snap an asparagus stalk’s bottom; freshness is indicated by its moist and crisp texture. Avoid limp or discolored options.
Can I use canned or jarred asparagus for this soup?
Yes, you can utilize canned or jarred asparagus, but be aware that it might alter the soup’s authentic taste and texture. Given the added components in preserved asparagus like salt and vinegar, it’s advisable to rinse and drain them comprehensively before use.
How do I make this soup vegan or dairy-free?
Transitioning to a vegan or dairy-free version is simple: substitute chicken stock with a vegetable variant and replace dairy ingredients with vegan counterparts such as olive oil or plant-based milk. Incorporate nutritional yeast for an enhanced cheesy essence.
How do I make this soup gluten-free?
Inherently, this soup recipe doesn’t include typical gluten constituents. However, for those managing gluten sensitivities, it’s prudent to inspect the labels of your chosen stock and cream. For accompaniments, opt for gluten-free variants like bread or croutons.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s asparagus soup recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy this spring vegetable. It is creamy, smooth, and full of flavor. It is also easy to make with just a few ingredients and a blender. You can serve it hot or cold, as a starter or a main course, with bread or croutons. It is a versatile and satisfying dish that will impress your family and friends.
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s asparagus soup recipe. If you did, please share it with your friends and leave a comment below. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to contact me anytime.
Happy cooking!