Get ready to transform your ordinary asparagus into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will make your taste buds dance with excitement! This Barbecued Garam Masala Asparagus isn't just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian spices to your grill. Imagine perfectly charred, tender-crisp asparagus spears infused with the warm, complex notes of garam masala, promising to elevate your barbecue game from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the asparagus by washing thoroughly under cold running water. Trim the tough woody ends by holding each spear and gently bending until it naturally breaks at its natural breaking point, which removes the fibrous bottom portion.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garam masala, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform marinade.
- Add the trimmed asparagus to the bowl and gently toss to ensure each spear is evenly coated with the garam masala oil mixture. Let the asparagus marinate for 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat your barbecue or grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the marinated asparagus spears perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through. Ensure they are placed in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Grill the asparagus for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even charring and cooking. Look for light grill marks and a slight tenderness while maintaining a crisp texture.
- Remove the asparagus from the grill when they are bright green with slight char marks and have a tender-crisp consistency. Transfer to a serving platter.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Asparagus: Select firm, bright green spears with tight, compact tips for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. Those 5-7 minutes allow the garam masala to deeply penetrate the asparagus, creating a more intense flavor profile.
- Grill Positioning Matters: Place asparagus perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through and to create those beautiful, appetizing grill marks.
- Watch the Heat: Medium-high heat (400-450°F) is crucial. Too low, and you'll steam; too high, and you'll burn.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure asparagus spears are in a single layer for even cooking and perfect charring.
- Final Flourish: A quick squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of fresh cilantro can brighten the dish and add an extra layer of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
