Spicy Fried Asparagus Stalks

Sackville's Note:

I adore asparagus but too often I trim off the tips and much of the stem goes to waste. I decided to take inspiration from one of my favourite recipes here on Zaar, Spicy Fried Celery #23818 by JanS, to create this use for asparagus stems.

• Total Time: 10 mins
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 5 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 2

• 20 asparagus spears , stems only, trimmed to 3 inches long
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon chili flakes , or
• 1 small red chile , chopped
• ¼ cup water
• 3 teaspoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

Directions:

1. Cut the asparagus stems in half lengthwise.
2. In a wok, heat the oil until very hot.
3. Put in the stems and chilli flakes or chilli and fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the water and sugar and cook on a high heat for about 4 minutes or until the stems are nearly tender.
5. This may take longer if your stems are especially thick.
6. Add the soy sauce and cook a minute longer.
7. Serve immediately.

Reviews

[PaulaG]

I just broke off the tough ends and cooked tender spears as instructed in the recipe. I did reduce the chili flakes to 2 teaspoons but the remainder of the ingredients stayed the same. These do have a nice kick and went very well with Grilled Cedar Plank Salmon With Lemon-Dill Topping.