Asparagus belongs to us in spring like cookies in Christmas time. The time has finally come and the delicious sticks are in season again. Whether from the saucepan or the oven, as a soup or quiche: we just can’t get enough of it. Since you are sure to feel the same way, today we want to answer the most important questions about the ” Vegetables of Kings “.

How healthy is asparagus?

Asparagus consists of over 90% water and provides only 18 calories per 100 g. The low-calorie stick vegetables also contain many vitamins and minerals . One serving (300 g), for example, covers around 60% of the daily requirement of vitamin C and folic acid . In addition, it is easy to digest and very digestible. The amino acid contained in asparagine also stimulates the kidneys and has a dehydrating .
Unfortunately, side dishes often turn the low-calorie vegetables into a real calorie bomb. Therefore: Better to do without the classic Hollandaise sauce or melted butter and dare to try something new.

How long does the asparagus season last?

The season begins – depending on the weather – End of March to mid-April and traditionally ends on 24. June . Why always on June 24th? In this way, the farmers ensure that the plants recover sufficiently by next year.

How do I recognize fresh asparagus?

Fresh asparagus spears are firm and can hardly be bent. If the bars squeak when you rub them together, this is also a sign that they are fresh. In addition, the ends should be neither dried out nor discolored .

How do the sticks stay fresh for as long as possible?

When buying, the local market or farmer should be preferred on site , because the sticks lose quickly of aroma, freshness and delicacy. They therefore taste best when they are consumed immediately after shopping. For storage, they are wrapped in damp kitchen towels and kept in the refrigerator. The asparagus can be stored for about one to two days. The raw sticks can also be peeled frozen .

What should I watch out for when preparing asparagus?

First the wash bars and then – always from the head to the ends – peel . The ends are cut off about 1-2 cm. Green asparagus does not need to be peeled, as the peel can be eaten here. The bowls don’t have to be thrown away, by the way, but can serve as a base for a delicious sauce or soup. For the preparation of asparagus , experts use a special cooking insert or pot that allows the sticks to be cooked while standing. This allows the tender tips to cook in steam. In addition to salt, you can also add a little sugar to the cooking water to neutralize bitter substances. By the way, it doesn’t always have to be the cooked version. The stick vegetables can also be prepared in the oven .

What is the difference between white, green and purple asparagus?

The The difference between green, white and purple asparagus is due to different cultivation methods . In contrast to white (also known as pale asparagus), green asparagus grows above the ground. Therefore it can form the green leaf pigment chlorophyll through sunlight. In the purple variant, on the other hand, the sticks are only stung when they have broken through the earth. The tips are exposed to the sun for a short time and turn purple. Which type and variety you prefer is a matter of taste. White asparagus tastes milder, purple and green a little more spicy.

Why does the urine smell after asparagus consumption?

The asparagusic acid contained in it is responsible for the typical smell . The breakdown products of this sulfur-containing compound are excreted in the urine and provide the characteristic odor . However, this does not occur in all people, some lack the enzyme to break down asparagusic acid.

Can I eat asparagus if I have gout?

One reads again and again that asparagus is due to its relatively high content of purines should not be consumed with gout. However, the Federal Center for Nutrition gives the all-clear: Even people with gout can enjoy the delicious sticks.