Asparagus Walnut Bisque
DESCRIPTION
Vegetarian asparagus soup with hearty walnuts makes a vibrant colored soup that no one will be able to resist.
Total Time
Prep Time
10 Mins
Cook Time
40 Mins
Total Time
50 Mins
Nutrition
Calories
280
Total Fat
16
Polyunsaturated Fat
7
Cholesterol
15
Sodium
44
Carbohydrates
14
Dietary Fiber
3
Protein
7
Ingredients
- 1 large bunch asparagus (1–1 1/4 pounds)
- 1 leek, thoroughly washed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup Arborio rice
- 1 cup California walnuts, chopped
- 1 bottle (750 ml.) Chardonnay wine
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
- Remove and discard any tough, woody ends from the asparagus spears, then cut the spears into 1-inch pieces. Blanch in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 4 minutes, until just tender, then drain well in a colander. Run cold water over the asparagus to cool it, then set aside to drain while you continue.
- Thinly slice the white and tender green parts of the leek. Melt the butter in a large saucepan, add the sliced leeks, and cook gently, covered, for about 5 minutes, until soft. Add the rice, walnuts and wine, then boil over moderately high heat until the wine has reduced to about 1/2 cup. (As a clue, at this point the reduced wine will not quite cover the solid ingredients.)
- Add the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, then simmer, covered, for 40 minutes. Add the cooked asparagus and stir for a moment. Puree the soup, using an immersion blender, or in batches in a blender or food processor, until it looks very smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The soup may be made ahead and reheated.