Heating a salt block low-and-slow takes time but totally rocks. Put simply, this is no ordinary side dish. It’s asparagus crack.
We don’t often think of asparagus as having umami– that 5th taste somewhere between savory and heaven. Well, it becomes apparent that it’s one of the best tasting vegetables with the right formula:
salt block + grill + heat + lemon = asparagus crack
Straight from the Himalayan mountains, your pink salt block is a bed for the asparagus spears. No more asparagus slipping through those grates! Any overhanging stalks get extra exposure to the dry heat.
Because of this, there’s a contrast as you bite into it that’s part crispy and part plump. While the grill gives the asparagus a char that magically brings out umami, the salt barrier keeps some of the spears juicy. A splash of charred lemon juice mingles with the asparagus juices to dance across every taste bud.
Unfortunately for me, I have a small block that could fit about 1/4 bunch of asparagus. While I thought this would be ideal for serving two people–I ate it all in one sitting. If you have a larger salt block, I’m so envious because you get to cook the entire bunch.
Skip ahead if you know how to heat your salt block or read on for how to cook and clean a salt block.
How to Heat a Himalayan Salt Block: The 20-20-20
As a rule of thumb, you want to heat your salt block slowly, gradually increasing the heat so that it doesn’t crack. I like to start with 20 minutes at a low heat, then increase to medium heat for 20 minutes, and then heat for 20 minutes on high.
Before cooking, it’s a good idea to test your salt with a splash of water. If the water sizzles and disappears, that means it’s hot enough to cook the food.
How to Clean A Salt Block
Food residue and heat affect the color of your salt block. Always allow the salt block to cool completely before handling. After 1 hour, your salt block should be cool enough to clean with a moist scouring pad. Salt is antimicrobial and should not come into contact with soap.
Scrub to remove food debris and wipe clean with a dry towel. Repeat until the block is shiny and clean. Store away from water, in a dry place. I like to store mine in the cupboard on top of a clean towel.
Have you ever cooked with your salt block? I know a lot of people who have them…but they don’t cook with them. Well, it’s about time that changes. Show them this recipe (they don’t know what they’re missing).
Salt Block Asparagus
Ingredients
- 1 himalayan salt block 8x8x1.5″ or larger
- 1 bunch asparagus tough ends removed
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 whole lemon cut in half
- salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat grill and place salt block directly on grates. Preheat for 1 hour (20 minutes on low heat, then 20 minutes on medium heat, followed by 20 minutes on high heat). Sprinkle with water to test — if water sizzles and disappears, the salt block is ready.
- Toss asparagus with olive oil in a large bowl. Use tongs to carefully place asparagus on top of hot salt block. Do not overcrowd the asparagus. You want the asparagus to make contact with the salt block so that it gets seasoned as it cooks. Place lemon directly on grill. Close lid and cook over high heat for up to 30 minutes.
- Asparagus cooked over a salt block in the grill will become crispy and crunchy where it overhangs and will shrivel and remain juicy towards the center of the block. Taste before seasoning as it may not require extra salt. Squeeze charred lemon over the asparagus and serve.
Notes
Nutrition
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Salt Block Asparagus: A Flavorful Revelation! Who would have thought that asparagus could reach a new level of culinary delight by simply gracing a Himalayan salt block? This article introduces an ingenious way to elevate your side dish game, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts. The combination of the salt block’s unique properties, the grill’s heat, and a touch of lemon creates a taste sensation that can only be described as “Asparagus Crack.” It’s a revelation for those seeking the perfect balance between crispy and juicy. The salt block not only prevents asparagus from slipping through the grill grates… Read more »
Wow, what a revelation! Asparagus on a salt block sounds like the culinary innovation we didn’t know we needed. The marriage of flavors and techniques described in this article is truly inspiring. The thought of that perfect balance between crispy and juicy asparagus, enhanced by the unique properties of the Himalayan salt block, has me eager to fire up the grill. I appreciate the detailed insights provided into heating and cleaning the salt block, making it seem less intimidating for those of us new to this cooking method. And the idea of the charred lemon juice adding another layer of… Read more »