Default User wrote:

>>>>> I usually cook asparagus by boiling or steaming for 6-8
>>>>> minutes. I also
>>>> use it in Chinese stir fries after blanching for 2-3 minutes and
>>>> cutting into 2 inch pieces on the diagonal.
>>> I have stir fried it many times without blanching. I never thought
>>> that it needed it.
>> Same here.
>
> AOL. I cut off about two inches of the tip, then the rest of the stalk
> I slice diagonally.
>

Why do you cut it diagonally. That is a good idea when stir drying hard
vegetables like celery and carrots. It increases the surface area for
quicker cooking. But since chopped asparagus is still round it is going
to be sitting on its side.