Silky Gluten-Free Asparagus Cream Soup
Savor the vibrant flavors of spring with this Silky Gluten-Free Asparagus Cream Soup. Perfectly creamy and full of fresh asparagus goodness, this delightful dish is not only gluten-free but also easy to prepare. It's a comforting bowl of nutrition that combines tender asparagus, rich half-and-half, and savory chicken stock. Ideal as a starter or a light meal, this soup brings warmth and tenderness that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy a taste of springtime with every spoonful!
6
Servings
250
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
asparagus
2 lbs (ends snapped and cut into pieces)
chicken stock
4 cups (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
butter
8 tablespoons (unsalted)
gluten-free flour
4 tablespoons (or regular flour if not gluten-free)
half-and-half cream
2 cups (use a light version for fewer calories if desired)
kosher salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium pot, combine the asparagus and chicken stock. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
2
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the asparagus becomes very soft, about 10-15 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of the broth and keep it warm.
3
Using a blender, carefully puree the asparagus with the remaining broth until smooth. Return this mixture to the pot.
4
In a separate medium heavy saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
5
Once melted, add the gluten-free flour, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
6
Gradually whisk in the reserved warm broth until the mixture is smooth and thick, which should take about 5 minutes over medium heat.
7
Pour the roux into the pot containing the asparagus puree, stirring to combine well.
8
Bring the combined mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
9
Gradually incorporate the half-and-half cream, ensuring a creamy consistency.
10
Season the soup with kosher salt and pepper to taste, stirring well before serving.
Nutrition Information
15g
Fat
18g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Gluten-Free Asparagus Cream Soup?
It is a creamy, vibrant soup featuring fresh asparagus, chicken stock, and a gluten-free roux, perfect as a spring starter or light meal.
How many servings does this asparagus soup recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What are the primary ingredients in this soup?
The main ingredients include 2 lbs of asparagus, chicken stock, butter, gluten-free flour, and half-and-half cream.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, the recipe uses gluten-free flour to create the roux, making it safe for those on a gluten-free diet.
How many calories are in one serving of this soup?
There are 250 calories per serving.
Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Yes, if you do not require the dish to be gluten-free, you can substitute the gluten-free flour with regular all-purpose flour.
What is the preparation for the asparagus?
The asparagus ends should be snapped off and the stalks cut into smaller pieces before cooking.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains 15g of fat.
How much protein is in this soup?
Each serving provides 5g of protein.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 18g of carbohydrates in each serving.
How do I achieve a silky texture for the soup?
A blender is used to puree the cooked asparagus with the broth until the mixture is completely smooth.
How long does it take to simmer the asparagus?
The asparagus should simmer in the chicken stock for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes very soft.
What kind of stock is recommended?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of chicken stock, and suggests low-sodium for a healthier option.
How is the roux for the soup made?
The roux is made by melting 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter and whisking in 4 tablespoons of gluten-free flour for about 2 minutes.
What should I do with the reserved broth?
The 2 cups of reserved warm broth should be gradually whisked into the flour and butter mixture until it becomes smooth and thick.
When should I add the half-and-half cream?
The cream is incorporated gradually after the roux has been combined with the asparagus puree and brought to a gentle simmer.
Can I reduce the calories in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a light version of half-and-half cream to reduce the calorie count.
What seasonings are used in this asparagus soup?
The soup is seasoned simply with kosher salt and pepper to taste.
Is this soup considered a healthy option?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe, especially when using low-sodium stock and fresh vegetables.
What is the best time of year to make this soup?
This is an ideal spring recipe when fresh asparagus is in peak season.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
While the recipe specifies chicken stock, you can substitute vegetable stock if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly base.
How much butter is needed?
The recipe requires 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What heat setting should I use to melt the butter?
The butter should be melted over low heat in a heavy saucepan.
How long does it take to thicken the roux mixture?
It takes about 5 minutes over medium heat once the reserved broth is added to the roux.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe suitable for home cooks of all levels.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
You will need a medium pot for boiling, a blender for pureeing, and a heavy saucepan for the roux.
How do I know when the asparagus is ready to be pureed?
The asparagus is ready when it has simmered long enough to become very soft.
Can this soup be served as an appetizer?
Absolutely, it is described as an ideal starter for a multi-course meal.
What is the consistency of the final soup?
The final soup has a creamy, silky consistency thanks to the blend of pureed vegetables and the roux-based cream sauce.
Do I need to add the half-and-half all at once?
No, it is best to gradually incorporate the half-and-half to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.