Grilled Soy-Sesame Asparagus Recipe

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Grilled Asparagus with Sesame and Soy

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Place the trimmed asparagus into the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure all the spears are evenly coated.
4. Lightly oil a fine-mesh grill grate to prevent the asparagus from sticking.
5. Arrange the asparagus on the grate and cook for about 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the spears are tender but still slightly firm.
6. Remove from the grill and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	100
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	1g
Sodium	230mg
Total Carbohydrate	10g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	4g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	10mg
Calcium	91mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	384mg

Servings per recipe: 4

Grilled Soy-Sesame Asparagus is a delightful and simple vegetable dish that combines the fresh, grassy flavor of asparagus with the rich, nutty undertones of sesame oil and soy sauce. It is easy to prepare and is a perfect side dish to complement any grilled meats or Asian-inspired meals. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight side or a dish for your next BBQ, this recipe will impress with its balance of sweet, savory, and umami notes.

Origin and History

The roots of this dish lie in the intersection of Japanese and Chinese cuisine, where sesame oil and soy sauce are staple ingredients. Both sesame oil and soy sauce have long histories in East Asian cooking, with sesame oil dating back over 2,000 years in China and Japan. The pairing of these ingredients with vegetables like asparagus is a modern twist that reflects the growing popularity of grilled vegetables in contemporary cooking. While asparagus itself is native to the Mediterranean, it has been embraced globally, especially in Asia, where it is often paired with bold flavors like garlic, soy sauce, and sesame.

Regional Variations

This dish, although common in Western adaptations, has strong roots in East Asian grilling techniques. In Japan, the concept of grilling vegetables and drizzling them with a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil is not new. A similar dish is Yaki Asparagus, where asparagus is grilled and served with soy-based sauces. In China, the addition of sesame oil to vegetables is a frequent method of imparting a deep, roasted flavor. Depending on the region, this recipe can vary by adding ingredients like ginger, chili flakes, or even miso paste for added complexity.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Grilled Soy-Sesame Asparagus stands apart from other vegetable grilling recipes due to the distinctive Asian flavor profile of sesame oil and soy sauce. Unlike typical grilled asparagus, which may be seasoned with olive oil and salt, this dish uses toasted sesame oil, which adds a smoky, nutty flavor that transforms the asparagus. The addition of brown sugar also gives a subtle sweetness, helping to balance out the natural bitterness of the asparagus. This dish is reminiscent of other grilled Asian vegetables, such as teppanyaki or yakimeshi, but with a unique sesame twist.

Where It Is Typically Served

Grilled Soy-Sesame Asparagus is commonly served as a side dish at BBQs, particularly when grilling Asian-inspired dishes like satays or teriyaki meats. It is a popular choice in restaurants that specialize in fusion cuisine, where East meets West, and also in home cooking. In Japan, asparagus might appear as part of a multi-course meal, particularly in more modern or Westernized settings, while in Chinese cuisine, it could be part of a vegetable stir-fry. The versatility of this dish makes it equally at home in both casual dining and more sophisticated Asian-themed dinners.

Interesting Facts

• The addition of toasted sesame oil is key to the distinctive flavor of this dish. It is best used as a finishing oil, as it has a strong aroma and is not suited for high-heat cooking.
• Asparagus, while native to Europe, has been adopted in many parts of Asia, where it is often included in stir-fries or grilled dishes.
• Sesame seeds, which are often used as a garnish in this recipe, are known for their high calcium and iron content, as well as their antioxidant properties.
• The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil is one of the oldest and most beloved flavor combinations in East Asian cuisine, often seen in marinades and dipping sauces.
• Grilling vegetables, such as asparagus, brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory soy-sesame sauce.

In conclusion, Grilled Soy-Sesame Asparagus is a flavorful and simple dish with deep ties to East Asian culinary traditions. Whether you're a fan of grilling or just looking for a healthy side, this recipe is a great way to explore bold, savory flavors. With its easy preparation and versatile pairing options, it is bound to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

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