M&S FOOD · 125 g
M&S FOOD British Asparagus Tips
What it is
These are the tender, young tips of asparagus spears, harvested at their peak. They are a vibrant green and have a delicate flavor that makes them a popular spring vegetable. The tips are the most sought-after part of the asparagus plant due to their sweetness and quick cooking time. They are typically sold in bunches or, as in this case, in a convenient 125g package.
How people cook with it
Asparagus tips are incredibly versatile and can be prepared in numerous ways to enhance a meal.
- Steamed as a side dish
- Roasted with olive oil
- Added to pasta dishes
- Wrapped in prosciutto
To prepare asparagus tips, start by rinsing them under cool water. You can trim off the very bottom woody ends, though with young tips this is often unnecessary. They cook very quickly, so be mindful not to overdo it. Steaming for just 2-4 minutes until tender-crisp is a common method. Roasting in a hot oven with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 5-8 minutes also brings out their natural sweetness. They can also be added to stir-fries or tossed into hot pasta dishes right at the end of cooking.
How it differs from similar foods
Asparagus tips differ from mature asparagus spears primarily in their tenderness and size. The tips are naturally more delicate and have a sweeter, less fibrous texture than the thicker stalks of older asparagus. This makes them ideal for quicker cooking methods where the entire spear is consumed.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to add a fresh, seasonal vegetable to their meals.
How to keep the rest
To keep the remaining asparagus tips fresh, store them upright in a glass with a small amount of water, similar to cut flowers. Cover the tops loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. They are best used within a few days of purchase for optimal flavor and texture.