Sugared Asparagus
Sugared asparagus offers a sweet and savory flavor combination, with tender asparagus glazed in a buttery brown sugar sauce, making it perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat butter and brown sugar until sugar is dissolved.
- Add asparagus; sauté for 2 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer 8 to 10 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
- Remove asparagus to a serving dish and keep warm.
- Cook sauce, uncovered, until reduced by half.
- Pour over asparagus and serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a little molasses. For a healthier twist, consider using olive oil instead of butter. Make sure to cut the asparagus to uniform pieces for even cooking, and adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the asparagus.
Serving Suggestions
Sugared asparagus makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats, especially with an Easy Chicken Main Dish. Consider pairing it with a light salad or serving it alongside roasted potatoes for a complete meal. It also complements well with chicken recipes, enhancing their flavors and providing a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sugared asparagus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving as it can make the asparagus mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugared Asparagus contains roughly 1677 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 182g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
While fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted, as frozen asparagus tends to release more water and may become softer.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. You can also use water with a bit of soy sauce or miso for added flavor. Just ensure that the broth or substitute complements the sweetness of the dish.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the asparagus and sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat the sauce and sauté the asparagus just before serving to maintain their bright color and crisp-tender texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).