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Carrot and asparagus broth

⏱ 20 min👤 2 pp★★☆☆☆

The most important quality for a true lover of cooking is undoubtedly the ability to reinvigorate everyday recipes, using every bit of your imagination - and thereby drawing on that mysterious well of creativity – to find the right combination of factors which results in a dish which is renewed and rediscovered once again. We are also keen not to neglect our promise to provide recipes for vegetarians, or lovers of vegetarian cuisine, so today we have created an unusual recipe: an inviting – and original – broth made with asparagus and carrots. But what is, in principle, a broth? It is something perhaps half-way between a stock and a soup, a flavoured liquid in which you find pieces of solid food, in this case, carrots and asparagus. Together they create a combination with a beautifully sweet taste. To make it more refined exclusive, we suggest you separately make some croutons: if they’re hot, they will make the broth even more irresistible!

Ingredients

Nutritional values 85 kcal / serving
Protein
3.5g
Carbohydrates
18g
Fat
0.5g
Fiber
3.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
20 minutes Preparation time
Serves 2 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

Trim the asparagus and cut off the tips - you’ll cook these separately. Cut the asparagus into 3cm strips. Trim the carrots and similarly cut into 3cm strips. Cut the onion into julienne strips. Blanch the asparagus tips separately in salted water. In a saucepan heat lots of olive oil and sauté the asparagus, onion and carrot. Add a splash of white wine, a pinch of salt and fry again. At this point add enough water for two or three portions. Simmer for 10 minutes and add a little sugar. Serve hot with croutons, adding the asparagus tips which were cooked separately.

Tips
To make your broth even more inviting you could also use the purple asparagus of Albenga, combined with the more common varieties.
Trivia
Carrots may appear to be all the same: in fact, there are a great many varieties, some even of a different colour from the classic orange, such as white or red.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Carrot and Asparagus Stew with Blanched Asparagus Tips

One of the tastiest variations of Carrot and Asparagus Stew involves the use of blanched asparagus tips, which add a note of freshness and tenderness to the dish. To prepare this version, after cleaning the asparagus and cutting the carrots into jardinière, it is essential to take a moment to blanch the tips. This step not only softens the tips but also enhances their flavor, making every bite an explosion of taste. The final result is a dish with vibrant color and balanced flavor, perfect for a spring or summer dinner. Served with a splash of white wine, the stew becomes an ideal side dish or a light main course, which can be accompanied by slices of toasted bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tuscan Carrot and Asparagus Stew

The Tuscan Carrot and Asparagus Stew represents an authentic expression of the culinary tradition of this region. Here, the simplicity of the ingredients blends with the richness of local flavors. The onion, cut into julienne, joins the asparagus and carrots, creating a mix of textures and aromas that tell the story of Tuscan cuisine. This dish is often prepared on special occasions but is also perfect for a daily lunch. Cooking in a casserole allows the nutrients of the vegetables to remain intact, making the stew not only tasty but also healthy. The white wine, used for deglazing, adds a touch of acidity that perfectly balances the sweetness of the carrots, making every taste a moment of pure satisfaction.

Light Carrot and Asparagus Stew without Oil

For those seeking a lighter option, Carrot and Asparagus Stew can be prepared in a light version, eliminating the use of oil. In this variant, cooking is done using only water or vegetable broth, keeping the fresh flavors of the vegetables intact. The carrots and asparagus, cut into jardinière, are gently cooked to enhance their natural sweetness. This preparation is ideal for those following a low-calorie diet or for anyone simply wanting a lighter dish without compromising on flavor. Additionally, the stew can be enriched with spices and aromatic herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to add an extra touch of flavor. Served hot, this light dish is perfect for a light dinner or a quick lunch, without giving up the pleasure of good food.

Carrot and Asparagus Stew: Benefits and Nutritional Values

The Carrot and Asparagus Stew is not only a tasty dish but also rich in health benefits. Carrots, for example, are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, contributing to eye and skin health. Asparagus, on the other hand, is known for its diuretic and antioxidant properties, which aid digestion and help keep the body in shape. On average, a serving of stew contains about 150 calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. The combination of fresh vegetables in this dish helps provide fiber and essential nutrients, making it a great option for those seeking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.

Can Carrot and Asparagus Stew be Frozen?

One of the most frequently asked questions about Carrot and Asparagus Stew is whether it can be frozen. The answer is yes, it is possible to freeze this dish, but it is advisable to do so only after it has been cooked and completely cooled. To freeze the stew, transfer it to an airtight container suitable for the freezer, making sure to leave some space for expansion during freezing. When you want to consume it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and gently reheat it in a saucepan. Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be delicious. This option is perfect for those who want to prepare healthy and tasty meals in advance.