This elegant side dish transforms simple asparagus into a restaurant-quality accompaniment. The spears are gently poached in savory chicken broth to retain their vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture, ensuring they aren’t overcooked. They are then bathed in a rich, glossy sauce made from rendered fat, oyster sauce, dry sherry, and a hint of toasted sesame oil. The combination creates a deep umami flavor profile that balances the natural earthiness of the asparagus. It is a sophisticated yet quick-to-prepare dish perfect for pairing with roasted meats or seafood on special occasions, or for elevating a standard weeknight dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Crisp Asparagus In Oyster Sauce
Description
This elegant side dish transforms simple asparagus into a restaurant-quality accompaniment. The spears are gently poached in savory chicken broth to retain their vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture, ensuring they aren't overcooked. They are then bathed in a rich, glossy sauce made from rendered fat, oyster sauce, dry sherry, and a hint of toasted sesame oil. The combination creates a deep umami flavor profile that balances the natural earthiness of the asparagus. It is a sophisticated yet quick-to-prepare dish perfect for pairing with roasted meats or seafood on special occasions, or for elevating a standard weeknight dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare the asparagus by snapping off the tough woody ends and trimming them to uniform lengths if desired.
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In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a rapid boil over high heat.
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Once boiling, add the oil and the prepared asparagus spears to the broth.
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Cook the asparagus for about 2 minutes, or until bright green and crisp-tender.
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Turn off the heat but leave the asparagus submerged in the hot broth to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster-flavored sauce, water, and pale dry sherry to create the sauce mixture.
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In a small saucepan, heat the rendered chicken or duck fat over medium-low heat.
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Pour the sauce mixture into the hot fat and stir gently.
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Cook the sauce over low heat just until it begins to foam and thicken slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sesame seed oil.
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Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the asparagus to a serving platter, allowing excess broth to drain off.
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Immediately pour the warm oyster sauce glaze over the arranged asparagus.
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Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 860.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 43.2g67%
- Saturated Fat 11.9g60%
- Cholesterol 320.4mg107%
- Sodium 295.2mg13%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 97.2g195%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.