Cookbook:Asparagus with Sesame Seeds and Soy Sauce

Asparagus with sesame seeds and soy sauce pairs very well with grilled beef, lamb or salmon. It can also be served chilled as part of a brunch menu. Asparagus is high in folic acid and fibre. Using organic ingredients enhances taste, health and the environment.

Ingredients

 * 20–32 asparagus spears, preferably thin
 * 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
 * 1 tbsp (15 ml) sesame seed oil
 * 2 tbsp (30 ml) sesame seed (If available, use Gomasio instead, and omit the salt)
 * Kosher salt

Equipment

 * Steaming pot
 * Bamboo steamer or asparagus steamer

Procedure

 * 1) Prepare steamer and bring water to a boil.
 * 2) Trim asparagus spears in half, discarding (or composting) the thicker ends.
 * 3) Steam the asparagus for 8–10 minutes, until tender, but still crisp.
 * 4) Heat a small skillet or frying pan on medium heat. Add the sesame seeds and shake or stir. They are done when they just begin to darken and give off a pleasant toasted aroma. Be careful not to leave unattended as they can easily burn.
 * 5) Remove asparagus from steamer, shake to drain water, and arrange on serving plate.
 * 6) Drizzle the soy sauce and the sesame oil over the asparagus.
 * 7) Sprinkle with the sesame seeds, and give a very light sprinkle with the Kosher salt.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * One way to gauge the best place to cut an asparagus spear is to gently grasp each end and bend the spear. The point at which is begins to break is where the stem begins to become tougher.
 * Gomasio is a Japanese seasoning made with sesame seeds and salt. I obtain mine at a local health food store. It can also be spelled "gomashio".