Asparagus And Rice Soup (Minestra Di Asparagi E Riso)

Asparagus And Rice Soup (Minestra Di Asparagi E Riso)


1. Rinse the asparagus; snap off the tough bottom stubs.

2. Slice the spears crosswise into 1/3 inch chunks, including the tips.

3. Pour 1/3 cup olive oil into a large pot, drop in the crushed garlic, and set over med-high heat.

4. Golden the garlic for a minute or two, just until fragrant and lightly colored, and stir the potato cubes into the hot oil.

5. Cook/stir occasionally, until the potatoes are crusty and starting to stick to the bottom but not browned—lower the heat if necessary—4-5 minutes.

6. Stir in the chopped leeks; cook until softened and sizzling, 3-4 minutes.

7. Pour 5 quarts water into the pot; add in the bay leaves and tablespoon salt; stir well, scraping up any crusty potatoes on the bottom.

8. Cover, and bring to a boil over high heat; stir in all the asparagus, return to a boil, and adjust heat to keep the broth bubbling steadily and slowly reducing.

9. Cook uncovered about 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the soup volume is reduced by almost a third and the broth is full of flavor—tasting is the way to test for doneness.

10. Stir in the rice and return to a boil; cook for 10 minutes, until the grains are al dente, then turn the heat off.

11. Season with freshly ground black pepper, and more salt to taste.

12. Stir in 2 tablespoons olive oil and ½ cup grated cheese.

13. Serve immediately in warm bowls, with more cheese and oil at the table.

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Nutrition

Ingredients