Purple Asparagus is a different Asparagus variety, than its green and white relatives. Purple Asparagus was developed in Italy and initially marketed as "Violetto d’Albenga."
Purple Asparagus has higher sugar and lower fiber than more familiar types of Asparagus.
New Zealand and the United States are working on improving the breed.
Purple Asparagus is typically categorized with the Spring Fruit & Vegetables because they're harvested March-June. The actual harvesting date depends on the weather and the region. Purple Asparagus is best, as fresh as possible.
Purple Asparagus stem thickness indicates the age of the vegetable, with the thicker stems coming from older plants. Older, thicker stalks can be woody. Peeling Purple Asparagus at the base, will remove the tough layer. Look for bright, purple, odorless Asparagus stalks with tight, dry tips but moist cut ends. Select Purple Asparagus spears that have a uniform thickness so they will cook evenly. Don’t buy limp or wilted stalks.
The bottom portion of Purple Asparagus often contains sand, grit and dirt. Washing is advised, before prepping or cooking.
Keep fresh Purple Asparagus refrigerated. They can typically last for up to 3-5 days, refrigerated. Store in a plastic bag with the cut ends wrapped in a moist paper towel to prevent drying. If the tips become slightly wilted, you can refresh them up by soaking them in cold water. Keep fresh Purple Asparagus moist and cool until you intend to use them.
Keep frozen Purple Asparagus in the freezer until they are ready for use. Read the label on the package to determine if the frozen Purple Asparagus product, should be thawed or used frozen. If your frozen Asparagus defrosts, cook it immediately. You can also freeze fresh Purple Asparagus, but Smart Kitchen recommends blanching fresh Asparagus before freezing. Use any frozen Purple Asparagus within 8 months.
In classic French cooking, Purple Asparagus is frequently Boiled or Steamed and served with a rich complimentary sauce like Hollandaise or Mayonnaise. Purple Asparagus can also be accompanied by a condiment like melted Butter, Olive Oil or even Parmesan Cheese. There are even specialized Asparagus Pots in France, which will steam the tips while keeping them out of the water.
Grilling Purple Asparagus, is another way that the vegetable shines. It can be an ingredient in Soups and Stews. Also, Purple Asparagus is often Stir-Fried and served with a protein like Chicken, Seafood or Beef.
Allow 2-4 Purple Asparagus spears per person.
Olive Oil, Sesame Oil, Peanut Oil, Truffle Oil, Unsalted Butter, Goats Cheese, Fontina Cheese, Parmesan Cheese, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Kosher Salt, Sea Salt, Fresh Dill, Dried Dill, Fresh Chervil, Garlic, Cayenne, Caraway Seeds, Bread Crumbs, Fresh Basil, Fresh Parsley, Dried Parsley, Dried Basil, Artichokes, Ginger, Leeks, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, Mayonnaise, Pasta, Chicken, Beef, Fish, Shrimp, Oysters, Pork, Seafood
Standard Asparagus
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