"Creamy" Asparagus Soup By adding potato you can create a creamy soup without using milk or cream. The crunchy texture comes from the fresh asparagus tips tossed into the pot at the last minute. Serve the soup as a first course with any entree or by itself with a small salad and fresh bread for a great quick supper. 1 medium onion, chopped, about 1/2 cup 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 pounds fresh asparagus, chopped, tips reserved, about 5 cups 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, about 2 cups 2 quarts chicken stock 1/2 pound fresh spinach leaves, about 2 cups 1/2 cup fresh dill 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper salt and freshly ground pepper 1/2 cup dry sherry, (optional) 1. Cook the onion in the olive oil, in a large pot over medium high heat, until soft. 2. Add the chopped asparagus stems, potato and chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil. 3. Reduce the heat, cover and continue to cook for at least 25 minutes. 4. Add the spinach, dill, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. HELPFUL HINT: The taste and aroma of sherry is a savory addition in many types of soups. I have included it in this recipe. However, it is not necessary. 5. Process the soup in batches in a food processor and return to the pot (or use an immersion blender). 6. Add the tips to the soup and season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper. TECHNIQUE: There are two ways to puree soup that transforms it from a liquid based soup with chunky pieces to a thicker, smoother consistency. The first technique is to ladle some of the hot soup with chunky pieces into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until the soup is pureed. Pour the mixture into a large bowl. Continue until all of the soup has been pureed. Return the pureed soup to the pot and continue with the recipe. A more convenient technique uses an immersion blender. This hand held blender is placed directly into the soup pot to puree the ingredients. Remember to turn off the heat while you are doing this step! Serves 6 to 8 Preparation Time About 45 Minutes More Find Your Inner Chef Materials • Chicken Stock with Roasted Vegetables Recipe • Step-by-Step illustrations for chicken stock • Feel Good Chicken Soup Recipe • "Creamy" Asparagus Soup Recipe Try this potato secret to add creaminess to your favorite soup. To share your new creamy soup email Jorj Morgan at jorj@bluesuitmom.com