Asparagus, a spring delicacy, offers a surprisingly versatile flavor profile that lends itself beautifully to soups. This recipe showcases a unique twist on a classic, blending the fresh, slightly earthy taste of asparagus with warming Indian spices to create a vibrant and flavorful Shatavari soup. Shatavari, an adaptogenic herb known for its potential health benefits, adds a subtle yet intriguing depth to the dish, making it both nourishing and delicious. Forget bland, watery soups; this recipe delivers a rich, creamy texture without relying on heavy cream.
This Indian-inspired asparagus soup is surprisingly easy to make, requiring readily available ingredients and minimal cooking time. The delicate balance of flavors, combined with the smooth texture, will make it a new favorite in your spring and summer repertoire. Ready to experience the magic of this flavorful soup? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Pot
- Hand blender (or mixer)
Ingredients
- Asparagus: 250 grams
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic cloves: 2-3, chopped
- Green chilies: 2-3, roughly chopped
- Potatoes: null
- Lemon juice: 1 lemon
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rock salt: 1 teaspoon
- Chili flakes: 1 teaspoon (or Kashmiri red chilies)
- Water: 1/2 liter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Asparagus and Vegetables
- Snap off the woody ends where it naturally breaks. Discard the hard bottom parts that don't break easily.
- Cut the asparagus into 1-inch pieces.
- Add chopped potatoes and sauté for another 2 minutes.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Cook Potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a pot. Add chopped garlic and sauté lightly until fragrant.
- Add chopped green chilies and fry for about 2 minutes.
- Add water (1/2 liter) and cook for 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are soft.
Step 3. Blend and Season the Soup
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend it using a hand blender or mixer until smooth.
- Return the blended soup to the pot. Add black pepper, salt, chili flakes (or Kashmiri red chili powder).
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Global Thanksgiving: Easy Indian Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
Tips
- For a thicker soup, you can add a little cornstarch.
- You can adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 4g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute Shatavari if I don't have it?
Yes! You can omit the Shatavari entirely, or substitute it with other herbs like fenugreek or even a touch of turmeric for a similar earthy note. The soup will still be delicious.
2. How can I make the soup creamier?
For a richer texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked soup before adding it back to the pot. Alternatively, a dollop of coconut milk or plain yogurt stirred in at the end adds creaminess without changing the flavor drastically.
This Indian-style asparagus soup, infused with the subtle earthiness of Shatavari, offers a delightful culinary experience that's both healthy and satisfying. Its simple preparation makes it perfect for a weeknight meal or a sophisticated brunch. Enjoy this flavorful and refreshing soup, and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite spices to personalize it further!