Asparagus and Sprouting Broccoli with Peanuts and Black Sesame Salt
This Vietnamese recipe makes for a delicious, simple side dish. Perfect for when asparagus and sprouting broccoli are in season.
Introduction
The sea salt, ground peanut and sesame seed mix used here makes a simple but magical seasoning that can be used in a variety of dishes. In our schooldays, sometimes our packed lunch would simply be rice, pressed into dumplings and then dipped in this peanut and sesame mix.
Ingredients
200g | asparagus tips |
200g | purple-sprouting broccoli |
Seasoning: | |
2 tbsp | salted, roasted peanuts |
1 tbsp | sea salt |
1 tbsp | sesame seeds |
Shallot butter: | |
5g | butter |
2 tbsp | dried shallots (or toasted dried onion) |
Method
Crush the rooasted peanuts with the sea salt in a pestle and mortar (or use a grinder or food processor). Add the sesame seeds and pound again, then mix well.
Put a frying pan over a medium heat and add the butter.
Add the dried shallots and toss for a couple of minutes until golden, crispy and fragrant. Pour this shallot butter into a jug or bowl.
Add the asparagus and the sprouting broccoli to the same frying pan and stir-fry them for a couple of minutes – they will cook faster if you put a lid on the pan.
Remove the asparagus and sprouting broccoli to a serving plate. Drizzle the shallot butter and sprinkle the peanut and sesame salt mixture over the vegetables, and serve.