How to Cook White Asparagus
This method teaches you how to properly cook fresh white asparagus so that it turns tender and lacks any stringiness. The asparagus is simmered gently in water flavored with lemon slices and a touch of sugar. White asparagus requires a soft texture rather than being al dente, so these steps ensure even cooking by keeping the spears loose and covered with a towel throughout the simmering process.
Ingredients
- white asparagus fresh
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 piece lemon sliced
Instructions
- There are asparagus steamers available, but if you do not have one, please ensure that your cooking pot is large enough that asparagus bundles have enough space to “swim” loosely.
- Bring all ingredients except the asparagus bundles to boil. Add the asparagus bundles, bring the water back to boil and lower the heat to a simmer.
- White asparagus will need to cook for 12 -19 minutes depending on the thickness of the stems. White asparagus need to be cooked soft and should not be al dente. Under cooked asparagus they will be stringy and unpleasant to eat.
- Cover the asparagus with a white kitchen towel during the cooking process. This will ensure that the asparagus are equally cooked even though they are swimming on the surface.