chunky vegetable soup

Step by Step method

• STEP 1

  First, make the dumplings. Tip the cottage cheese into a bowl and mash to smooth slightly. Mix in the flour, egg and basil, then set aside for about 10 mins for the flour to absorb the moisture.

• STEP 2

  Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large pan over a medium heat and fry the leeks, garlic and potatoes for 10-15 mins, or until softened. Pour over the bouillon, then add the asparagus stems, all of the beans, the tomatoes and and remaining basil stems. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer, cover and cook over a medium heat for 10 mins until the veg is tender. Stir in the asparagus tips and remaining basil leaves, and cook a few minutes more. Set aside.

• STEP 3

  Heat a deep frying pan filled with water to a gentle simmer, then use an ice-cream scoop to scoop eight dumplings into the simmering water. Cook for 5 mins, or until the dumplings rise to the surface.

• STEP 4

  To serve, divide two portions of soup between bowls and top each with two dumplings. Keep the rest for another day. Will keep chilled in an airtight container for four days. Reheat in a pan for 10 mins over a low heat until piping hot.