Asparagus, with its delicate yet assertive flavor, is a spring vegetable that deserves a place of honor on your dinner table. This simple stir-fry recipe elevates the humble asparagus to new heights with the savory richness of oyster sauce. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is a testament to the fact that sometimes the most delicious meals are the easiest to make. Using readily available ingredients, you’ll create a vibrant and flavorful side dish or a light yet satisfying main course in minutes. The subtle sweetness of the asparagus beautifully complements the umami depth of the oyster sauce, creating a harmonious balance that's sure to please even the most discerning palates.
This recipe requires minimal ingredients and even less effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick and elegant addition to a larger meal. The key is to achieve that perfect balance of tender-crisp asparagus and a glossy, flavorful sauce. Ready to transform this elegant vegetable into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own delicious Asparagus with Oyster Sauce.
Tools Needed
- knife
- mortar and pestle
- pot
- frying pan
Ingredients
- Asparagus: 350 grams
- Thai garlic: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt
- White sugar: 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Red-capped Tejai light soy sauce
- White soy sauce
- Nam Te Jai oyster sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Water: 5 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Asparagus and Garlic
- Cut 350 grams of asparagus into 2 pieces. Leave the hard stems uncut.
- Pound 2 tablespoons of Thai garlic coarsely.
- Boil water in a pot, add salt and 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. This helps keep the vegetables fresh.
- Blanch the asparagus for 5 minutes. Then immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and maintain vibrant color. Drain well.
Step 2. Make the Oyster Sauce
- Combine red-capped Tejai light soy sauce, white soy sauce, 1 1/2 tablespoons of white sugar, 3 tablespoons of Nam Te Jai oyster sauce, and 5 tablespoons of water. Simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened.
Step 3. Stir-fry Asparagus
- Add the blanched asparagus to the sauce and stir-fry until well coated.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Fry the pounded garlic in a pan over low heat until golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish with the crispy fried garlic and serve hot.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Using vegetable oil when blanching asparagus helps keep it fresh.
- Fry the garlic on low heat to achieve a crispy texture.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. The recipe suggests 1 1/2 tablespoons for those who don't like it too sweet.
- Use only 60% of the oyster sauce for a well-balanced flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sauce instead of oyster sauce?
Yes! Soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a simple garlic sauce can be substituted. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
2. How can I prevent my asparagus from becoming mushy?
Don't overcook it! Stir-fry the asparagus for just a few minutes until it's tender-crisp. Using high heat helps maintain its texture.
3. What can I serve this asparagus with?
It's a fantastic side dish with rice, noodles, chicken, tofu, or fish. It also works well as part of a larger stir-fry.
This simple recipe proves that elegant and delicious meals don't require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and umami-rich flavors of this easy stir-fry, perfect for any occasion. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this effortlessly delicious asparagus dish!