'EVER GREEN' THOUGHTS ON THE CUSP OF SPRING ~ ASPARAGUS SOUP

"If I keep a green bough in my heart,

then the singing bird will come. "

~ Chinese Proverb

ASPARAGUS SOUP

(a simple taste of spring adapted from the Silver Palate Cookbook)

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2 pounds sliced asparagus (reserve tips)

1 large bunch of leeks

2 quarts organic chicken broth

1 stick sweet butter

coarse salt

freshly ground black pepper

sour cream

chives

• Melt butter in large stockpot. Simmer clean chopped leeks until soft, about 20 minutes, stirring often.
• Add chicken stock, and sliced asparagus. Bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes or until asparagus is very soft.
• Puree stock with hand blender or in blender, a batch at a time. Return to pot and add tips, simmering until tender but still firm, about 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Ladle in bowl and top with dollop of sour cream and chopped chives. (8 servings)

(In the spring, the soup looks lovely topped with chive blossoms. When the weather is warm, serve the soup cold blended with 1/2 cup of heavy cream.)

"Lord, keep my memory green."

~ Charles Dickens