Edible Paradise

RECIPES: How to Cook Asparagus, Asparagus and Sausage Scramble, Sausage Vegetable Frittata, Asparagus and Crab Hollandaise, Saute of Thick Asparagus and Oyster Mushrooms, Asparagus, Spinach and Green Garlic Strata, Creamy Lemon Dressing for Asparagus

You know it’s spring when Hog Farms is back at the farmers market with asparagus!

Once considered a delicacy by the Romans, asparagus is a perennial vegetable that is the member of the lily family. The “spears” are actually the shoots from an underground crown. It takes about three years for crowns to mature to the point of producing, but once they do, the crowns produce asparagus for about 20 years. Spears are harvested in the spring when 6-8 inches tall.

Asparagus is not only prized as an epicurean delight, but also for its medicinal properties, too. It is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables in existence. It leads nearly all produce items in the wide array of nutrients it supplies in significant amounts for a healthy diet.

Asparagus is the leading supplier among vegetables of folic acid. A 6 ounce serving provides more than 60% of the recommended daily allowance for folacin which is necessary for blood cell formation, growth, and prevention of liver disease. Folacin has been shown to play a significant role in the prevention of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, that cause paralysis and death in 2,500 babies each year.

However, asparagus contain a natural substance called purines, which are commonly found in plants, animals and humans. Purines are metabolized into uric acid, and act as an antioxidant for most of us. However, individuals with health conditions related to high levels of uric acid, such as “gout” or kidney stones, may need to limit or avoid asparagus.

How to Select

Look for firm, thin stems with deep green or purplish closed tips. The cut ends should not be too woody, although a little woodiness at the base prevents the stalk from drying out. Try to select spears all of the same size and diameter so that they will cook at the same rate.

How to Store

Stand the spears upright in a jar with a little water at the bottom, or wrap the ends in a damp paper towel. Try to eat within a day or two after purchasing for best flavor.

See also: How to Cook Asparagus