Stir-fried asparagus is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant green vegetable's natural sweetness and subtle earthy notes. Simple yet elegant, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a sophisticated side dish. The tender-crisp asparagus spears, expertly stir-fried, are complemented by the savory umami of shiitake mushrooms, creating a balanced and flavorful experience. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is easily adaptable to your skill level and pantry staples. A few pantry staples and fresh ingredients are all you need to create a restaurant-quality dish in minutes.
This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, promising a satisfying culinary journey. To unlock the secrets to perfectly stir-fried asparagus and discover the simple steps involved, let's delve into the detailed, step-by-step instructions provided in this article.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Basin
- Bowl
- Basket
Ingredients
- Asparagus: 2 bunches
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Garlic: minced
- Salt
- Sugar: 1/2 tablespoon
- Water
- Oil
- Pear seeds: 1 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Cut asparagus into 4-5cm pieces. Soak in diluted salt water to clean.
- Soak shiitake mushrooms in water to soften.
- Discard the hard parts of the asparagus and keep only the young parts.
- After soaking asparagus in salt water for 5 minutes, wash and drain thoroughly.
Step 2. Blanch the Asparagus
- Boil water, add salt and sugar. Blanch asparagus for 1 minute.
- Immediately transfer blanched asparagus to ice water for 2 minutes to retain its green color and crispness.
- Drain the asparagus.
Step 3. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic
- Heat oil in a pan, add minced garlic and fry until golden brown.
- Add soaked shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry.
- Add pear seeds, sugar, and a little water to soften the mushrooms.
Step 4. Stir-fry and Season
- Add asparagus and stir-fry quickly for about 2 minutes.
- Season to taste.
Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack
Tips
- Blanching asparagus helps retain its green color and crisp texture.
- Stir-frying quickly prevents overcooking and maintains the asparagus's crispness.
- This recipe creates a sweet and delicious asparagus dish that is also nutritious.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbs: 20-25g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of shiitake?
Yes! Cremini, oyster, or even button mushrooms would work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; some mushrooms cook faster than others.
2. How can I prevent the asparagus from becoming mushy?
Don't overcrowd the pan, use high heat, and cook for just a few minutes until tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking!
3. What can I serve this dish with?
This stir-fry is delicious as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. It also pairs well with rice or noodles.
This simple yet elegant stir-fry is a testament to the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!