Asparagus is a spring superstar, boasting a fresh, earthy flavour and impressive nutritional profile.
But achieving the ideal texture can be tricky. Overcook it, and you’re left with a limp, mushy disappointment.
Blanching, however, is a game-changer.

This quick cooking technique unlocks asparagus’ potential, resulting in spears that are crisp-tender, vibrantly green, and bursting with flavour.

Imagine asparagus spears bathed in a beautiful emerald hue, their tips a touch darker green.
They glisten slightly, hinting at their perfect crispness.
When you bite into one, it yields slightly, offering a satisfying snap followed by the delightful flavour of asparagus in its prime.

How To Blanch Asparagus

Say goodbye to limp asparagus forever! This foolproof blanching method ensures perfectly cooked spears every single time. Create Restaurant-worthy Asparagus

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 3

Fast Cool 1

Total Time 9

Course Side Dish

Cuisine New Zealand

Servings 4 serves

Calories 25 kcal

Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large bowl
Tongs

Ingredients

500 grams Asparagus Spears
1 tablespoon kosher salt
5 litres water
Ice cubes Optional

Instructions

Prep the Asparagus: Wash and trim the asparagus. Snap off the woody ends by bending the spear until it breaks naturally.
Bring Water to a Boil: Fill your large pot with water and add the kosher salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Blanch the Asparagus: Carefully add the asparagus spears to the boiling water. Blanch for 2-3 minutes for thin spears and 3-4 minutes for thicker spears, or until crisp-tender.
Stop the Cooking: Immediately transfer the asparagus to a colander and rinse under cold running water for a few seconds. Alternatively, plunge the asparagus into a large bowl filled with ice water for 1 minute. This halts the cooking process and preserves the vibrant green colour.
Drain and Serve: Drain the asparagus thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels if desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Recipe Tips

For even cooking, ensure all asparagus spears are similar in thickness.
Don't overcook the asparagus! It should still have a slight bite.
If using tongs to transfer the asparagus, be gentle to avoid breaking the spears.
Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice to the ice water for an extra flavour boost.

Serving Suggestions

Blanched asparagus is a versatile side dish that complements various dishes. Here are some ideas:

Try Roasting Chicken, Beef, or other roasted vegetables to pair with your blanched asparagus.
Toss it into Salads for a touch of elegance and a flavour boost.
Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved parmesan cheese for a simple yet satisfying dish.
Wrap blanched asparagus spears in prosciutto and bake for a delicious Appetiser.

Conclusion

Blanching asparagus is a simple technique that yields exceptional results. With this method in your culinary arsenal, you can elevate your meals with perfectly cooked, vibrant asparagus spears. So next time you have asparagus, ditch the struggle and embrace the art of blanching!

Keyword blanched asparagus