The difference between white, green and purple asparagus
One is white, another is green, and then you also have them in purple. That makes sense, but what else is the difference between all these different types of asparagus?
First of all: the asparagus clearly differ in how they grow. White asparagus grows underground in the dark. By not exposing white asparagus to light, no green colour develops. Green and purple asparagus need light and therefore grow above ground.
Flavour
The flavour is also different: white asparagus has a milder flavour, somewhat on the sweet side with a slight bitterness. Green asparagus, on the other hand, is stronger and somewhat earthier in flavour. The purple stalk is considerably sweeter because it has a higher sugar content.
What to make with them
Green asparagus is especially delicious roasted or grilled. For example, eat it on flatbread with smoked salmon. Or steam it and eat it with crispy dumplings. Purple asparagus is best eaten raw or blanched for a few minutes to preserve its purple colour. If you cook it for too long, it will turn green.
White asparagus is traditionally prepared with smoked ham and egg or with hot-smoked salmon, here’s a recipe for you. But first, of course, you need to peel and cook the asparagus; here you can read how to prepare them at their very best. Then choose a good wine to go with the asparagus and dinner is served.
