Creamy Asparagus Soup

Creamy Asparagus Soup

(serves 8)

2 tbsps butter

3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped

1 shallot, roughly chopped

2 big handfuls asparagus spears, roughly chopped

chicken or vegetable stock JUST to cover

good drizzle of cream

salt and black pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and saute garlic and shallot until softened.  Add asparagus and cover with stock.  Simmer for about half an hour until stems are soft, then puree with a hand blender until completely smooth.  Add cream and serve either hot or cold.