Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in many ways, but stir-frying is one of the best methods to bring out its flavor and texture. Stir-fried asparagus is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a weeknight meal or a side dish for a special occasion. The key to making the best stir-fried asparagus is to use fresh, tender asparagus spears and to cook them over high heat so that they remain crisp. You can add a variety of ingredients to your stir-fried asparagus, such as garlic, ginger, chili peppers, and soy sauce, to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.
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SPICY STIR-FRIED PORK, ASPARAGUS, AND ONIONS WITH LEMON GRASS
This is a fantastic stir-fry! It serves 3-4 people (or even two big eaters) and I recommend serving it with plain rice. Recipe is adapted from 'The New Best Recipe'. Enjoy!
Provided by tigerduck
Categories Pork
Time 45m
Yield 3-4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Freeze the tenderloin until firm, 20 to 30 minutes. Cut the tenderloin crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick medallions. Slice each medaillon into 1/3-inch-wide strips.
- Combine the pork, 1 tsp fish sauce, and the soy sauce in a small bowl.
- Whisk the remaining 2 tbsp fish sauce, the chicken broth, lime juice, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a measuring cup.
- Combine garlic, lemon grass, red pepper flakes and 1 tbsp of the oil.
- Heat 1 1/2 tsps oil in a nonstick 12-inch skillet or in a wok over high heat until smoking; add half of the pork to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally and breaking up the clumps, until well browned, about 2 minutes. Transfer pork to a bowl. Repeat with an additional 1 1/2 tsps oil and the remaining pork.
- Add 1 tbsp oil to the now-empty skillet or wok; add the asparagus and cook, stirring every 30 seconds, until lightly browned, about 2 minutes. Add the water, cover the pan, and lower the heat to medium. Steam the asparagus until tender-crisp, about 2 minutes; transfer the asparagus to the bowl with the pork.
- Add the remaining 1 1/2 tsps oil to the skillet or wok; add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until beginning to brown and soften, about two minutes.
- Clear the center of the skillet; add the garlic and lemon grass mixture to the clearing and cook, mashing the mixture with a spoon, until fragrant, about 1 minute, then stir the mixture into the onion. Return the pork and asparagus to the skillet and toss to combine. Whisk the sauce to recombine, then add to the skillet/wok; cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thickened and evenly distributed, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with the thai basil. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 390.9, Fat 22.6, SaturatedFat 5, Cholesterol 74.8, Sodium 1281.9, Carbohydrate 20.4, Fiber 4, Sugar 9.2, Protein 29.2
STIR-FRIED SPICY ASPARAGUS
Categories Vegetable
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Snap off and discard the tough bottoms of each asparagus spear. Cut the asparagus into 2-inch lengths
- In a wok or cast-iron skillet, heat the oil until nearly smoking. Add the asparagus, season generously with salt and pepper and stir well, making sure the asparagus is coated and glistening with oil. Continue to stir-fry over high heat for about 1 minute, until the asparagus looks bright green and barely cooked. Add the garlic, ginger and chile and stir-fry for 30 seconds more.
- Transfer to a serving platter and scatter leaves on top. Serve immediately.
Tips:
1. Choosing the Right Asparagus: Select fresh, vibrant green asparagus with tightly closed tips. Avoid any spears that are limp or have woody ends.
2. Prepping the Asparagus: Wash the asparagus thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. Peel the lower third of each spear to remove any fibrous strings.
3. Marinating the Asparagus: To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the asparagus in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes before stir-frying.
4. Using High Heat: Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the asparagus. High heat helps to quickly sear the asparagus, preserving its crisp texture and vibrant color.
5. Stir-Frying Technique: Use a spatula or tongs to continuously stir-fry the asparagus, ensuring even cooking and preventing it from becoming soggy.
6. Timing is Key: Cook the asparagus just until it turns bright green and tender-crisp. Overcooking will result in mushy asparagus.
7. Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauce variations to suit your taste preferences. Try a simple soy sauce and garlic sauce, a spicy chili sauce, or a flavorful oyster sauce.
8. Serving Suggestions: Stir-fried spicy asparagus is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, side dish, or appetizer. Pair it with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion:
Stir-fried spicy asparagus is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dish that packs a flavorful punch. By following these tips and techniques, you can create a restaurant-quality stir-fry at home. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your wok, and get ready to enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish.
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