Winter is here, and even though the weather is kind, my biological clock knows it’s time for warm dishes. After a long country walk, there’s nothing better than a steaming and delicious soup to comfort both body and soul. Today, I’m sharing an easy and nutritious recipe: wild asparagus soup.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a simple yet flavorful dish. Plus, if you already have stock prepared, it will be even quicker to make! Keep reading to learn how to prepare this delicious soup in just a few steps.
Ingredients for 4 servings
- 1 onion
- 1 or 2 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch of wild asparagus
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 2 liters of stock (vegetable, chicken, or your choice)
- Olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Saffron threads or turmeric (depending on your preference)
Step-by-step preparation
- Prepare the wild asparagus: If you’re unsure how to do this, check out our post on how to prepare wild asparagus. It’s an important step to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.
- Slice the onion and garlic: Peel the onion and slice it into thin strips. Do the same with the garlic cloves.
- Sauté the base for the soup:
- Heat some olive oil in a large pot.
- Add the garlic and onion. Sauté them over low heat until golden, but be careful not to burn them! This process will take about 20 minutes, allowing the natural sweetness to develop.
- Add the asparagus: Toss the asparagus into the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to mix the flavors.
- Incorporate the paprika and stock: Add the teaspoon of paprika and quickly pour in the 2 liters of hot stock. Stir to combine.
- Season and flavor: Add salt to taste and include the saffron threads or turmeric (I prefer turmeric for its milder flavor and vibrant color).
- Cook and serve: Bring the soup to a boil, then let it cook for 10 minutes. That’s it! Serve piping hot and enjoy a comforting, flavorful soup.
Tips and Variations
- If you don’t have wild asparagus, you can substitute them with regular green asparagus. While the flavor will differ, the soup will still be delicious.
- For added texture, serve with croutons or a poached egg.
- This soup pairs perfectly with crunchy bread or homemade focaccia.
Health Benefits of This Soup
This soup isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with benefits:
- Wild asparagus is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
- Garlic and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that strengthen your immune system, making it ideal for winter days.
- It’s light yet comforting, perfect as a starter or a light dinner.
Conclusion
Wild asparagus soup is a delicious and easy-to-make option that brings out the best of natural ingredients. It’s the perfect dish for chilly winter days, with its aromatic touch of paprika and turmeric warming you from the very first sip. What are you waiting for? Give it a try!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it and leave a comment with your results. We’d love to hear how it turned out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup with frozen asparagus?
Yes, although fresh asparagus always has a more intense flavor, frozen ones are a practical alternative.
What type of stock is best to use?
A good homemade stock is always the best choice, but if you’re short on time, a high-quality vegetable or chicken stock works perfectly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use 100% vegetable stock.
