Asparagus
3Digest
This episode of The Recipe with Kenji and Deb delves into the world of asparagus, exploring its unique characteristics and culinary potential. The hosts discuss the different parts of asparagus, the best ways to trim and peel it, and the various cooking methods that bring out its flavor. They also touch upon the cultural significance of asparagus, particularly in Germany, where it's celebrated during the annual Spargel season. The episode features a wide range of asparagus recipes, from simple blanched asparagus with a mayo-based dipping sauce to more elaborate dishes like asparagus flan and asparagus stuffed eggs. Kenji and Deb also share their insights on shopping for asparagus, emphasizing the importance of freshness and the different ways to use asparagus based on its size and thickness. The episode concludes with a lively discussion about the versatility of asparagus, highlighting its ability to be incorporated into various dishes, from pizzas and tacos to salads and soups.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the episode's topic: food and memory, specifically focusing on the connection between food and the people we love. The episode is about incredible true stories told live, and this particular episode is all about food and memory.
Asparagus: A Culinary Exploration
This Chapter dives into the culinary world of asparagus, exploring its unique characteristics and culinary potential. The hosts discuss the different parts of asparagus, the best ways to trim and peel it, and the various cooking methods that bring out its flavor. They also touch upon the cultural significance of asparagus, particularly in Germany, where it's celebrated during the annual Spargel season.
Asparagus Recipes: From Simple to Elaborate
This Chapter features a wide range of asparagus recipes, from simple blanched asparagus with a mayo-based dipping sauce to more elaborate dishes like asparagus flan and asparagus stuffed eggs. Kenji and Deb also share their insights on shopping for asparagus, emphasizing the importance of freshness and the different ways to use asparagus based on its size and thickness.
The Versatility of Asparagus
This Chapter concludes with a lively discussion about the versatility of asparagus, highlighting its ability to be incorporated into various dishes, from pizzas and tacos to salads and soups. The hosts explore the possibilities of using asparagus in different culinary contexts, showcasing its adaptability and deliciousness.
Keywords
Asparagus
Asparagus is a spring vegetable that is known for its unique flavor and versatility. It is a member of the lily family and is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. Asparagus is typically harvested in the spring, but it can be found year-round in grocery stores. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Asparagus is often cooked by blanching, roasting, grilling, or steaming. It can be served as a side dish, added to salads, or used in soups and stews. Asparagus is also a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines.
Spargel
Spargel is the German word for asparagus. It is a highly venerated and adored vegetable in Germany and Austria, particularly during the annual Spargel season, which runs from mid-April to late June. Spargel is often served with butter, lemon, and potatoes. There are festivals and carnivals dedicated to Spargel, showcasing its cultural significance in Germany.
White Asparagus
White asparagus is a variety of asparagus that is grown without light, resulting in a pale white color. It is considered a delicacy in Germany and Austria, where it is often served during the Spargel season. White asparagus has a milder flavor than green asparagus and is often cooked by steaming or boiling. It is typically peeled before cooking.
Asparagus Pee
Asparagus pee is a distinctive odor that some people produce after eating asparagus. It is caused by a sulfurous compound called asparagusic acid, which is broken down by some people's bodies. Not everyone can smell asparagus pee, as it requires a specific genetic predisposition. The odor is often described as aromatic or pungent.
The Recipe with Kenji and Deb
The Recipe with Kenji and Deb is a podcast hosted by Kenji Lopez-Alt, the author of The Food Lab and a columnist for the New York Times, and Deb Perelman, the creator of Smitten Kitchen and the author of three best-selling cookbooks. The podcast explores the world of cooking, sharing techniques, ingredients, and recipes with a focus on home cooking and experimentation.
Radiotopia
Radiotopia is a network of independent creator-owned listener-supported podcasts. It is known for its diverse range of programming, which includes podcasts on topics such as science, history, culture, and personal stories. Radiotopia is a project of PRX, a non-profit organization that supports independent media.
Hang Up
Hang Up is a reality dating podcast from Radiotopia. It is a queer cross between The Bachelor and Love is Blind, where contestants go on phone dates and eliminate each other until the final color gets to choose their prize. The podcast is known for its refreshing focus on dating and connection rather than marriage.
Q&A
What are some of the best ways to trim and peel asparagus?
Kenji and Deb recommend feeling for the woody part of the asparagus and either snapping it off or cutting it with a knife. They also suggest peeling the asparagus, especially the tougher ends, for a more appealing and flavorful result.
What are some of the different ways to cook asparagus?
Asparagus can be cooked in a variety of ways, including blanching, roasting, grilling, steaming, braising, and pureeing. The hosts discuss the pros and cons of each method and offer tips for achieving the best results.
What is the cultural significance of asparagus in Germany?
In Germany, asparagus is highly revered and celebrated during the annual Spargel season. There are festivals, carnivals, and even a Spargel frow dedicated to this vegetable. The most popular variety in Germany is white asparagus, which is grown without light and considered a delicacy.
What are some creative ways to use asparagus in recipes?
Kenji and Deb share a variety of asparagus recipes, including asparagus flan, asparagus stuffed eggs, asparagus pizza, asparagus tacos, and asparagus soup. They also discuss the versatility of asparagus, highlighting its ability to be incorporated into various dishes, from salads and stir-fries to pasta and eggs.
What are some tips for shopping for asparagus?
When shopping for asparagus, look for fresh spears with tight tops and freshly cut bottoms. It's ideal to find asparagus that is standing upright in a little bit of water to prevent dehydration. The hosts also discuss the different ways to use asparagus based on its size and thickness, suggesting that thicker spears are best for snacking or braising, while thinner spears are better for grilling or roasting.
Show Notes
In this episode, Kenji and Deb talk all about asparagus. You can roast it, puree it, sautee it, grill it, and even eat it raw. It can serve as a snack or as part of a main dish. Did you know it grows in different colors? Hear how Deb prepares asparagus as a family snack and how it can make for a great pizza topping. And it wouldn't be an episode about asparagus without learning about the science behind its notorious side-effect.
Recipes mentioned:
Snacky Asparagus (from Smitten Kitchen)
Shaved Asparagus Pizza (from Smitten Kitchen)
Simple Grilled Asparagus (From Serious Eats)
Braised Asparagus (from Serious Eats)
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