Brazillian Food

Once a harbinger of spring, asparagus is much too available now. Off-season asparagus, whether forced up from soil or flown in from far away, tends to be bland and tough - barely reminiscent of the fresh real thing. So spare yourself some disappointment in December: Roll your cart right by those long-stemmed beauties from Brazil and wait until native field-grown asparagus is in stores.
WHEN TO BUY March through June and October through November
RECIPES Use slender asparagus in stir-fries or steamed, chilled and tossed with vinaigrette for salads. Use thick asparagus as a simple side dish, steamed and drizzled with lemon and butter. Or for risotto seasoned with Parmesan and fresh mint. Or puree it with steamed potatoes and vegetable or chicken broth for soup.