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Asparagus soup

From Martin's Farmstand

<p>The asparagus that I got last week was wonderful&#8212;roasted and in asparagus soup. Thanks.<br /> Asparagus Soup</p> <p>Prep Time:20 min in active Prep Time: &#8212; Cook Time:1 hr 0 min<br /> Level:<br /> Intermediate</p>
Source: Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse, 2003 (Entered by Daniel Martin)
Serves: 8 to 12 servings


Ingredients
3 lbs fresh asparagus, rinsed
8 cups chicken stock
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup shallots
1 cup minced leeks, whites only, well rinse
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white ground pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan, garnish

Step by Step Instructions
  1. Trim the attractive top tips from the asparagus, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in length. Cut the woody stem ends from each spear and reserve. Cut the remaining tender stalks into 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. In a medium pot, bring the stock to a boil. Add the tough woody stems, lower the heat and simmer to infuse with asparagus flavor, 20 to 30 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and discard, reserving the stock.
  3. Add the decorative tips to the stock and blanch until tender, 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Remove with a strainer and refresh in an ice water bath. Drain on paper towels and reserve for the garnish. Reserve the stock.
  4. With a hand-immersion blender or in batches in a food processor, puree the soup until smooth. Adjust the seasoning, to taste. If serving right away, return to medium heat and add the cream and reserved asparagus tips. Cook, stirring, until the soup is warmed through, about 3 minutes.
  5. Alternatively, if serving the soup later, do not add the cream and let cool at room temperature (or in an ice water bath). Cover and refrigerate. Before serving, add the cream and asparagus tips, and warm the soup gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. To serve, place the soup in a soup tureen and sprinkle with cheese. Ladle into demi-tasse cups or small coffee or tea cups, and serve.