What technical process, involving covering the developing shoots with soil or specialized mounds, distinguishes the cultivation of white asparagus?
Answer
Blanching
The technical process that specifically yields white asparagus its pale hue and tender texture is known as blanching. This procedure mandates that the emerging shoots are diligently covered, typically with soil or specialized mounds, as they grow upward. This physical barrier is crucial because it entirely prevents the developing spears from accessing sunlight. Without light exposure, the stalks cannot undergo photosynthesis, which means they never develop chlorophyll, the very pigment responsible for rendering standard asparagus green. This fundamental difference in cultivation directly impacts the final appearance, texture, and subtle flavor variations observed between the white and green varieties.
Related Questions
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