Asparagus smells like spring
Asparagus is a seasonal delicacy: like no other vegetable, it forms the basis of light and refined springtime dishes. In South Tyrol, the asparagus season began at the end of March and is now in full swing. Gourmets can continue to enjoy locally grown white asparagus until the end of May. This vegetable is not only delicious but also healthy and low in calories: it contains a wealth of vitamins and minerals, as well as glutathione – an antioxidant that plays a vital role in protecting the body’s cells.
The Squeak Test for Freshness
Freshly picked white asparagus, ideal for preparing excellent dishes!
Terlaner SpargelzeitThe most famous asparagus from Terlan is the one branded “Margarete”: in the area around Terlano, Vilpiano and Settequerce, asparagus thrives thanks to the ideal soil and favourable climate. However, high-quality asparagus also grows in Kastelbell in the Vingschau, as well as other parts of South Tyrol.
In any case, the fresher the asparagus, the better it tastes: fresh tips will squeak slightly when rubbed together. A Sauvignon from the region is the perfect pairing for asparagus – South Tyrolean white wines are no longer a treat reserved only for wine connoisseurs, and receive international acclaim and awards year after year.
Asparagus from Kastelbell with ham, potatoes and Bozner sauce
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Frieder BlickleAn Accidental Invention
In South Tyrol, asparagus is not traditionally served with Hollandaise or Béarnaise sauce, but with the region’s own Bozen sauce. It was long believed that this sauce originated in Bozen itself, but according to local legend, it was actually created in Terlan.
After the First World War, residents of Bozen would travel to Terlan to enjoy the asparagus there. While dining at the traditional Huber-Schwarz restaurant, they began mixing the boiled eggs served alongside with salt, pepper, vinegar, oil and chives. The hostess, unimpressed by the mess left behind on the tables, took what remained back into the kitchen and turned it into a proper sauce to accompany asparagus – and it was an instant hit.
A Clever Way to Use Leftovers
Bozner sauce is a great way to make use of leftover Easter eggs (hard-boiled eggs with intact shells can be kept in the fridge for up to four weeks). If you happen to have any Easter ham still in the freezer, you can use that too. A touch of mustard can be added to the sauce for an extra boost of flavour!
Asparagus still goes very well with meat.
Sebastian Stocker_Sparerhof
In spring, numerous restaurants in South Tyrol serve fresh asparagus dishes.
Fotolia - Corinna Gissemann
Kurz vor Ostern werden in ganz Südtirol Eier gefärbt. Viele sind dabei sehr kreativ.
Internet Consulting - Isabel GräberA Perfect Easter Recipe
Easter in South Tyrol is a celebration infused with the scents of spring and the joy of togetherness. During this time, tables are adorned with traditional, wholesome dishes, often made using seasonal ingredients like asparagus. After the classic chocolate egg hunts for the little ones, families gather for simple yet delicious lunches.
White asparagus often takes centre stage, served with colourful hard-boiled eggs and local specialities such as Easter ham and traditional bread.
In srping, excellent asparagus are growing in South Tyrol, that are then processed to fantastic dishes.
IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Frieder BlickleWhite Asparagus Flan
A perfect Easter recipe we’d love to share – and one that’s sure to impress your guests – is a white asparagus flan with a melted cheese centre.
Simply steam 500g of white asparagus and blend with 200ml of fresh cream, 2 eggs, and a pinch of nutmeg. Pour the mixture into buttered ramekins, placing a small cube of cheese (such as Graukäse or a farmhouse cheese) in the middle of each.
Bake at 200° in a bain-marie for around 25 minutes. Serve warm with a generous spoonful of Bozner sauce – and, for the adventurous, some crunchy speck crumbs on top. A dish that beautifully combines elegance and tradition – perfect for your Easter lunch.
We’d like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a peaceful and joyful Easter, hoping the magic of spring in South Tyrol accompanies you on an unforgettable journey through our magnificent mountains!
Coloured eggs and white willow branches to wish you a Happy Easter!
Image by congerdesign