Asparagus Aux Milanaise Recipe

History of Asparagus Aux Milanaise:
Asparagus Aux Milanaise is a classic French recipe that originated in Milan, Italy. This dish showcases the rich and elegant flavors of asparagus combined with melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg. It is a popular choice during the asparagus season, which typically falls in the spring months. Asparagus itself has been enjoyed for centuries and is known for its unique flavor and numerous health benefits. It is believed to have been cultivated as early as 3000 BC and has been enjoyed by civilizations throughout history, including the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.

Fun Facts about Asparagus Aux Milanaise:
1. The name "Milanaise" refers to the city of Milan, which is known for its rich culinary heritage. The dish is believed to have been inspired by Milanese cuisine, which often incorporates butter, cheese, and eggs.
2. Asparagus is known for its versatility in cooking. It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, such as soups, salads, and stir-fries, but Asparagus Aux Milanaise is a particularly delightful way to showcase its unique flavor and texture.
3. Asparagus is considered a vegetable delicacy and was once exclusively enjoyed by royalty and the wealthy. Today, it is more widely accessible and enjoyed by people all over the world.

Recipe for Asparagus Aux Milanaise:
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of large choice asparagus
- Salt
- Pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Melted butter
- Fresh eggs

Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the asparagus. Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears and discard them. Then, carefully wash the asparagus under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add a generous amount of salt to the water. This will help to season the asparagus as it cooks.
3. Place the asparagus spears in the boiling water and cook them until they are tender. This usually takes around 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the asparagus spears. You can test the doneness by gently piercing the thickest part of the asparagus with a fork. They should offer minimal resistance but not be mushy.
4. Once the asparagus is tender, carefully remove them from the boiling water and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help to absorb any excess moisture.
5. Preheat your oven to a medium-high heat setting.
6. On the serving dish, arrange a layer of asparagus stalks in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Sprinkle the layer with a pinch of salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat the process, creating two more layers of asparagus stalks, seasoning each layer with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Once all three layers are completed, drizzle melted butter over the top, making sure to cover the entire dish.
9. Crack a fresh egg for each person onto the top of the dish, ensuring that they are evenly spread out.
10. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake until the eggs are set. This typically takes around 5 to 7 minutes, but keep a close eye on the dish to prevent overcooking.
11. Remove the dish from the oven and serve the Asparagus Aux Milanaise while it is still hot. The eggs should be cooked but still slightly runny.
12. Enjoy this classic French dish with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed Asparagus Aux Milanaise, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:
1. Roasted Asparagus with Parmesan Cheese: This recipe combines roasted asparagus with grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and a touch of garlic for a simple and delicious side dish.
2. Asparagus and Mushroom Quiche: This savory quiche features a delicate asparagus and mushroom filling, complimented by a creamy egg mixture.
3. Asparagus Risotto: Creamy and comforting, this risotto is made with tender asparagus, Arborio rice, vegetable broth, and Parmesan cheese. It is a delightful main dish or side for any occasion.
4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Butter: Grilling asparagus adds a smoky and charred flavor to the dish. Drizzle the grilled asparagus with a tangy lemon butter sauce for a refreshing and zesty twist.
5. Asparagus Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette: For a lighter option, try an asparagus salad dressed with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Top it off with some shaved Parmesan cheese and toasted almonds for added flavor and texture.

These tantalizing asparagus dishes offer a variety of ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable, showcasing its unique flavors and textures. Whether you choose to indulge in the rich and luxurious flavors of Asparagus Aux Milanaise or opt for a lighter and fresher option, asparagus is sure to be a highlight of your culinary adventures.