Photo courtesy Tzu Chi Hawaii
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Using a bit of oil, garlic powder, liquid aminos and lemon juice will produce a savory dish of asparagus. Garlic powder is incorporated into the simple sauce, giving it a subtle flavor.
Liquid aminos, like soy sauce, is made from soybeans but does not contain wheat, so is gluten-free. It is found in most grocery stores.
Ingredients:
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or granules
• 1/4 teaspoon water
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper,
to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons liquid aminos
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Directions:
In a large, dry pan, toast pine nuts and pumpkin seeds over medium heat until fragrant, 2-4 minutes. Pour mixture onto a plate to cool.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder/granules with water to form a paste.
Return pan to the stovetop over medium heat and add the oils. Mix in the garlic paste; cook 30 seconds.
Add trimmed asparagus and lightly season with salt and black pepper. Cook until spears are crisp but tender, about 3-6 minutes depending on their thickness. Stir to cook evenly.
Add liquid aminos, lemon juice, and half the toasted seed blend; stir to mix. Turn the asparagus to coat each spear with sauce. Taste and season with more salt if needed.
Place asparagus mix on a serving dish, distributing nuts and seeds as needed. Top with remaining pine nuts and pumpkin seeds if desired. Serves 4.