Asparagus is a prized vegetable that is very versatile.
Asparagus is a versatile vegetable thanks to its fresh, savory flavor that combines well with many spices. It can also be cooked in several ways: grilled, fried, steamed or even baked. The most commonly paired spices with asparagus are ginger, nutmeg, allspice and cumin. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Ginger
Native to India and China, ginger's warm, pungent flavor pairs well with greens, particularly sweet or grassy ones like sugar snaps and asparagus. Asparagus fried with ginger, sesame oil and soy sauce is a typical Asian-inspired side dish, often served with fish. Alternatively, a little crushed ginger and lemon juice makes for a fresh-tasting starter. Rather than frying, asparagus can be steamed and a sauce containing ginger can be poured over afterward.
Nutmeg
The subtle spice of nutmeg is often used in cakes and pastries, therefore sprinkle a bit over an asparagus tart or quiche. It is also added to bechamel sauce, so it's ideal for asparagus that requires creamy sauces. You can also make nutmeg butter by heating butter in a pan, adding lemon juice, salt and pepper and nutmeg; pour it over the greens before serving.
Allspice
Allspice is so-called because its flavor resembles a mixture of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and pepper. Use with asparagus when pickling, along with garlic, pickling salt, peppercorns and vinegar. Pickled asparagus are good in salads, as garnish or as a side dish. You can also combine asparagus and allspice in a curry with coconut milk and meat.
Cumin
Cumin is one of the most important spices in curry, therefore its flavor is always reminiscent of the Indian dish. You can add cumin to the liquid for pickling asparagus or add the asparagus to a curry. Add the vegetable toward the end so that it remains crunchy. You can also try frying or grilling the asparagus with cumin and a little orange peel for a sweet, spicy taste.
Tags: lemon juice, side dish, well with, with asparagus