White Asparagus - What makes it white

Question: White Asparagus - What makes it white

What is the difference between white asparagus and green asparagus? Does it make a difference in my recipe?

Answer: White asparagus comes from the process of etiolation, which is the deprivation of light. Dirt is kept mounded around the emerging stalk, depriving it of light. The plant cannot produce chlorophyll without light, thus there is no green color to the stalks.

White asparagus is considered to be slightly milder in flavor and a bit more tender than green asparagus. All varieties and colors may be used interchangeably in recipes.

More About Asparagus and Asparagus Recipes:

• Asparagus Selection and Storage
• Asparagus Cooking Tips
• Should asparagus be peeled? FAQ
• What is white asparagus? FAQ
• Asparagus Varieties and Seasons
• Asparagus History
• Asparagus and Health
• Asparagus Recipes
_{Asparagus Photo © 2006 Peggy Trowbridge, licensed to About.com, Inc.}