Vegetable Photo: Fresh Asparagus

Asparagus

A vegetable with long, tender shoots that are generally categorized as white, purple and green varieties, all belonging to a plant in the lily family. The shoots of the green or white variety are usually harvested when the stalks reach a height of 8 inches and are 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. They are always harvested by hand. The color of the asparagus is determined by the amount of exposure to sunlight. This vegetable has small leaves that look like scales tightly packed near the tips, which are especially popular because of their soft to crunchy texture and mild flavor. Green asparagus is traditionally the most common variety in the United States, while purple or white asparagus is usually available on a limited basis in specialty markets. White asparagus is the type that is most popular in Northern Europe. The white variety has less flavor then the green or purple. The purple variety is generally harvested when the stalks reach a height of approximately 3 inches. Once cooked, this asparagus provides a somewhat distinctive fruity flavor.

(Source: RecipeTips.com)

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