Every Sunday, Simone Tondo invites us to discover a family recipe that awakens the senses. Today, her choice focuses on confited asparagus in oil, a dish that breathes tradition and simplicity. With carefully selected ingredients, this preparation highlights the authentic flavor of asparagus while providing a prolonged preservation to satisfy our cravings throughout the year.
In Simone’s kitchen, every detail counts: the quality of the olive oil, the fresh rosemary, and the judicious use of spices add an extra dimension to this dish. The confited asparagus are much more than just a side dish; they are an experience to share around a table, a tribute to the flavors of yesteryear.
What are the steps to prepare Simone Tondo’s Confited Asparagus?
To start making the confited asparagus in oil, it is crucial to properly prepare the ingredients. You will need 500 g of green asparagus, 250 ml of extra virgin olive oil, and some aromatics like garlic and rosemary. The first step is to clean the asparagus by removing the hard part at their base and rinsing them under running water. Once washed, you can gently dry them with a cloth.
After this initial preparation, it’s time to blanch the asparagus. In a saucepan, mix 1 liter of water with 500 ml of vinegar and bring it to a boil. Then, immerse the asparagus in this mixture for 3 to 4 minutes. The goal is to ensure that the asparagus remains tender while retaining its crunch. After this cooking time, drain them and immediately transfer them to a bowl with ice water to stop the cooking. This temperature contrast will help them keep their beautiful green color.
How to sterilize the jar to preserve the Asparagus?
The preservation of asparagus is a key element to enjoy their taste year-round. To sterilize the glass jar, start by immersing it in boiling water for about 10 minutes. This ensures that all unwanted bacteria are eliminated, thus preserving the quality of the asparagus. After sterilization, let the jar air dry to avoid any residual moisture.
When the asparagus have cooled completely, it’s time to place them in the sterilized jar. Arrange them vertically for a nice presentation. You can then add in the garlic cloves along with a sprig of rosemary and a few black peppercorns. Finally, simply cover all the asparagus with olive oil. This step is crucial to ensure that every asparagus is completely submerged, which is necessary for proper preservation. The key here lies in the airtight sealing of the jar, which will allow the flavors to blend effectively.
How long should the Asparagus marinate before tasting them?
Patience is the key in this recipe. After securely closing the jar, it should be left in a cool, dark place. The confited asparagus in oil will be ready to be enjoyed after a week of marination. This resting time is essential, as it allows the aromas of the oil, garlic, and rosemary to gently infuse into each asparagus. Also, consider tasting them halfway through to observe the evolution of the flavors.
Once the week has passed, you will be amazed by the flavor that emerges. However, if temptation is too strong, it is possible to taste them after a few days, but keep in mind that they will be even more delicious after a full week. Additionally, the confited asparagus can be preserved for several months, as long as they remain submerged in oil.
What are the tips for accompanying the Confited Asparagus?
The confited asparagus in oil by Simone Tondo are not meant to be enjoyed alone. A great way to appreciate them would be to serve them as an appetizer, accompanied by fresh bread. To enrich the tasting experience, you could present them with a touch of fresh herbs. Here are some ideas to accompany them:
- Add pieces of goat cheese for a tasty contrast.
- Serve them with grilled meats, such as spicy chicken or beef.
- Complete the dish with an assortment of other pickled vegetables.
- Offer them as a snack with olives and dried fruits.
- Incorporate them into a fresh salad with cherry tomatoes and basil.
These suggestions will enhance their flavor and add a colorful touch to your table.
How to preserve the Asparagus once the jar is open?
Once the jar is open, it is essential to pay close attention to the preservation of the asparagus. To ensure their freshness, store them in the refrigerator. This will slow down the degradation process. It is advisable to consume the asparagus within a week of opening the jar. This will allow you to ensure an optimal tasting experience, while enjoying all the aromas that have developed during the marination.
The asparagus will remain delicious if they are kept submerged in oil. This will protect them and ensure their preservation. To avoid any hygiene issues, refrain from introducing unclean utensils into the jar, as this could alter the quality of your preparation.
Through this authentic recipe for confited asparagus, Simone Tondo invites you to rediscover the joy of family cooking. The simplicity of ingredients, such as extra virgin olive oil and herbs like rosemary, enhances the flavor of these vegetables.
The process of blanching followed by marination creates a harmony of flavors that begs to be enjoyed. By taking care to properly sterilize the jar, you ensure the preservation of the asparagus while retaining their natural aromas. They can be enjoyed as a starter or as a side dish, offering a multitude of possibilities for your meals.
Finally, by adding aromatic herbs, every gourmet can personalize this recipe to their taste. Whether for sharing with friends or simply indulging yourself, these confited asparagus will surely awaken the senses and delight the taste buds. Don’t hesitate to explore other recipes like the potato gratin or the filet mignon in red wine for even more inspiration.
