Griddling or barbecuing asparagus individually can be fiddly, but it’s much easier cooking them like this – plus it looks impressive
Prep:10 mins
Serves 4
16-20 asparagus spears, about 500g/1lb 2oz2 tbsp sesame oil1 tbsp soy sauce1 garlic clove, crushed2 tbsp sesame seeds
STEP 1With one hand, hold an asparagus stalk at its base. Bend the stalk over with your other hand – the asparagus will break where the woody part ends and the tender part begins. Discard the base. Place 4 or 5 asparagus stalks next to one another. Skewer them crosswise in two places – just below the tips and 3cm from the bottom – with slender bamboo skewers. You will end up with something that looks like a raft.STEP 2In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic and sesame seeds and stir with a fork to mix. Brush this mixture on the asparagus rafts on both sides. Season the asparagus with a little salt and lots of pepper.STEP 3Grill the asparagus on a barbecue or in a griddle pan for 4-5 mins per side, turning with tongs. Sprinkle with sesame mix as they grill.
