How To Steam Asparagus

Difficulty level: Medium

Asparagus is a rather delicate vegetable, and steaming it correctly so that that stalks are done but the tips aren't soggy can be a real challenge. Here are two tried-and-tested techniques for perfectly-steamed asparagus for those of us without steaming baskets.
 

Preparation

• Wash the asparagus
• Hold a stalk with a hand at each end
• Bend the asparagus until it snaps in two and repeat with remaining asparagus (save the non-tip ends for vegetable stock)
• If the spears are fat, you might want to peel the bottom inch of each one
   

Method 1

1. In a large, deep saucepan or Dutch oven, bring 1 inch of water to a boil
2. Tie the asparagus stalks together with string
3. Stand asparagus in the water, tips up
4. Cover with a large bowl or pot, reduce heat, and steam until tender

Method 2

1. In a large saucepan, skillet, or Dutch oven, bring ½ inch of water to a boil
2. Add a single layer of asparagus
3. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer until tender
    

Cooking Time

Asparagus takes about 2-5 minutes to cook, depending on size and freshness. As soon as it turns bright green, it's ready.
 

More Cooking Tips and Techniques

 
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