Cooking Times

Asparagus spears differ in size and weight because they are hand grown and individually cut.For that reason, cooking times vary (usually 3-6 minutes).Whatever cooking method you choose, your asparagus is cooked when the tips are tender (test with the point of a knife or a skewer).

Boiling & Steaming

Whether boiling or steaming, it is a good idea to tie the asparagus in bundles of 10-12 spears for cooking, so they can be quickly removed from the water all at once.

To boil: submerge in a large pan of boiling water, cover and cook for 3-6 minutes.

To steam: stand the asparagus in 3 inches of boiling water, cover and cook for 3-6 minutes.

Roasting, Chargrilling and Barbecueing

Roasting and chargrilling produces an intense smoky flavour quite distinct from boiling or steaming.

To roast: pre-heat the oven (220C, gas mark 7), place asparagus on baking sheet, drizzle over a little olive oil.Roast for approximately 10 minutes, turning a few times depending on the thickness of the spears.Stems should be soft, not limp; tips should be slightly crunchy.

To chargrill: toss the spears in a little olive oil and place a ridged grill pan over a high heat.Grill the spears for 3-6 minutes turning once or twice.

To barbecue: set the grill on a medium height above the coals - you don't want the asparagus to cook too quickly and become black.Place the spears directly on the grill and cook until lightly coloured.If desired, toss in light vinaigrette while still warm.

Stir Frying and Sautéing

Choose fine, young asparagus for stir frying and sautéing.If your asparagus is thicker, you may want to plunge it into boiling water for a couple of minutes and then into cold water to partially cook before stir frying or sautéing.

To stir fry: Heat a little sunflower oil in a wok or deep frying pan until smoking hot, add the asparagus and stir fry for 3-6 minutes.Finish with soy sauce, sweet chilli sauce or your favourite oriental condiment.

To sauté: Heat a non-stick frying pan and add a knob of butter.When it starts to foam, add the asparagus and toss in the butter for 3-6 minutes.

To Use in Salad

Select the youngest, finest spears available, chop roughly and use in your favourite salad.If desired, blanch very briefly in boiling water and refresh before use as described above.A delicious combination is asparagus, fresh peas, feta cheese and lemon dressing.