Asparagus Hot Dog

Freezing Asparagus

Freezing is one way to enjoy local asparagus well beyond its all-too-short growing season. Most sources recommend blanching prior to freezing, but I have always found it makes the asparagus mushy. Neil Morris, gardener and cook extraordinaire, swears by this method: Simply cut asparagus spears into one-inch lengths. Spread them out on a tray and place in the freezer. Once frozen, put the pieces in freezer bags and use them all year round in soups, stir-fries, omelettes and more.

Cooking Asparagus

The Ontario Asparagus Growers’ Marketing Board recommends 
the following methods for cooking asparagus:

• Steaming: Place in a covered steamer over boiling water for 4–8 minutes.
• Stir frying: Cut into 1-inch pieces and sauté in hot oil in a wok or frying pan for 5–7 minutes.
• Simmering: Add enough water to saucepan to just cover asparagus, plus 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until tender-crisp, 2–4 minutes, depending on thickness.
• Oven roasting: Drizzle with oil and salt and roast at 450ºF for 8–10 minutes.
• Grilling: Brush with oil and place directly over a medium grill for 8–10 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking.