Mary Berry Asparagus Soup Recipe

There’s something so rewarding about stirring up a warm pot of Mary Berry’s asparagus soup.

Start by frying the asparagus tips until they soften — I love this step because it adds both texture and flavor.

When blending the soup, I recommend using a food processor for a smoother finish if you can!

Also, passing the mixture through a sieve can help achieve that velvety consistency you want.

How to Make Mary Berry Asparagus Soup

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Asparagus
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Butter
• 4 cups Chicken broth
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black pepper (ground)
• 1 tbsp Lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Trim and chop the asparagus, ensuring that the tough ends are removed.

Set the tips aside for garnish later.

Step 2:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.

Step 3:

Add the chopped asparagus (excluding tips) to the pot along with the chicken broth.

Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.

Step 4:

Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.

Return the soup to the pot.

Step 5:

Stir in the cream, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.

Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve warm and garnish with the reserved asparagus tips.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose Fresh Asparagus

You’ll want to use fresh asparagus as it makes a big difference to the finished soup flavor.

Look for bright green stalks with firm tips for best results.

Use an Immersion Blender

If you have an immersion blender, it’s handy as it allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot without transferring batches.

This not only saves time but also reduces cleanup effort.

Adjust the Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Different broths can vary in salt content, so you might need to add more salt or pepper to taste.

Enhance with Herbs

Herbs like parsley or chives can add a nice touch if you want to mix things up a bit.

Sprinkle some chopped herbs on top before serving for a fresh finish.

Try a Splash of White Wine

For an added layer of flavor, you might add a splash of white wine during the simmering process.

It gives a wonderful aroma to the soup.

What to Serve with Mary Berry Asparagus Soup

Quiche

A slice of quiche makes a wonderful pairing with asparagus soup.

The rich flavors of the quiche complement the lightness of the soup, and you can include ingredients like cheese, bacon, or spinach to vary the taste.

It’s a great way to make a meal feel complete and satisfying.

Crusty Bread

There’s something comforting about dipping crusty bread into a bowl of soup.

Opt for a baguette or sourdough to enjoy the earthy flavors with the soup’s creamy texture.

This combination is perfect for rounding out your meal, providing both flavor and texture.

Roasted Carrots

Roasted carrots, seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and a touch of thyme, add a splash of color to your table and a hint of sweetness to contrast with the soup.

They also bring a pleasant earthy element, which works beautifully with asparagus.

Lemon-Herb Rice

For something a bit less traditional, consider serving lemon-herb rice.

The refreshing citrus element will give your meal a bright punch and adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with the flavors of the asparagus soup.

Caesar Salad

Add some crunch to your meal with a classic Caesar salad.

The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and parmesan cheese play nicely alongside the velvety soup.

The combination provides a textural contrast and a boost of flavor to the meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Dairy Alternatives

If you’re looking to keep it dairy-free, you can use coconut milk or almond milk as substitutes for cream.

You’ll notice a subtle flavor difference, but it’s equally delicious!

You can also experiment with soy cream for a richer texture.

Adding Protein

For an extra protein boost, consider adding cooked shredded chicken or crispy bacon bits.

This adds a hearty touch and changes the profile of the soup.

Both options are great if you’re looking for something more filling.

Veggie Mix-Ins

Feel free to add more veggies like peas or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

These vegetables blend well with the asparagus flavor and enhance the soup’s nutritional profile.

You can also try adding broccoli florets if you’re a fan.

Herb Choices

Try swapping the traditional parsley garnish for fresh basil or dill.

These herbs bring unique aromatic notes to the finished dish.

Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite pairing.

How to Store Leftover Asparagus Soup

Refrigeration Tips

Once your Mary Berry asparagus soup has cooled to room temperature, you should transfer it to an airtight container.

Place the container in the refrigerator.

This soup will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days, so you can enjoy it over the following days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you’re not planning to have your asparagus soup right away, freezing it is the way to go!

Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.

Label the containers with the date, so you know how long they’ve been stored.

Frozen asparagus soup can be stored for up to three months.

Tips for Reheating

When you’re ready to serve the leftovers, give them a good stir.

If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight to ensure even heating.

Reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through.

Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing Low-Quality Asparagus

One of the biggest mistakes is using asparagus that’s not fresh and vibrant.

You want those spears looking bright green and firm, not wilted or mushy.

Be sure to select asparagus with tightly closed tips for the best results in your soup.

Skipping the Rinse

It’s essential to wash the asparagus thoroughly to avoid grit in your soup. Gently rinse under cool water and rub each stalk to remove dirt and sand. A quick rinse does the trick, so there’s no need to soak them.

Overcooking

Avoid overcooking the asparagus. You want them tender but not mushy. Steaming is a great way to cook them just right. Keep an eye on the clock, and your soup will have the perfect texture!