Blanching asparagus is a quick and easy way to preserve its bright green color and crisp texture. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1.Prep the Asparagus: – Trim the woody ends off the asparagus.1 A good rule of thumb is to bend the bottom of the stalk until it naturally snaps. Discard the tough end.
Wash the asparagus under cold running water.
Bring Water to a Boil: – Bring the water to a rolling boilFill a large pot with salted water.
Blanch the Asparagus: – Carefully add the asparagus to the boiling water.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until tender-crisp. The exact timing may vary depending on the thickness of the asparagus.
Shock in Ice Bath: – Immediately transfer the cooked asparagus to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve the bright green color.
Drain and Use: – Remove the asparagus from the ice bath and drain in a colander.
The blanched asparagus is now ready to be used in various dishes, such as salads, soups, or stir-fries.