Asparagus

The local superstar

When the first warm rays of sunshine herald the arrival of spring, one of Niedersachsen’s most delicious seasons is upon us: asparagus time. From April to June, the growing regions revolve around this tender white vege

Lithe white asparagus: the holy grail of healthiness. Asparagus is packed with power. The slender spears are low in calories and brimming with nutrients such as proteins, vitamins and minerals. Few vegetables are as good for you as asparagus – it’s a true must-have on the table as often as possible. 

Fresh from the field

April to June

The best time for asparagus lovers is from April to the end of June – that’s asparagus season in Niedersachsen. After that, harvesting stops as the plant is left to grow. This is why asparagus is one of the few vegetables enjoyed almost exclusively in season. So why not head to Niedersachsen and savour it fresh? Niedersachsen is Germany’s largest asparagus-growing region. How about a foodie getaway along the Asparagus Route?

Erntehelfer auf dem Spargelfeld — CC-BY-NC-ND Christian Bierwagen

Indulgence in asparagus country

From field to plate

The king of vegetables shapes the region’s landscapes even before it is freshly harvested. Around Nienburg in the Mittelweser region, in the Braunschweiger Land, on Lüneburg Heath or the Osnabrücker Land, the characteristic long asparagus mounds poke their eager heads up as early as March. The white spears are freshly picked daily. Once exposed to light, their tips turn purple. Asparagus is full of surprises, as visitors learn on the Niedersachsen Asparagus Route. Spanning about 750 kilometres, the route links the major asparagus-growing regions between Lüneburg Heath and Oldenburger Land. Along the Asparagus Route, numerous asparagus farms and restaurants offer the perfect stop to enjoy asparagus prepared in a traditional style – tender yet firm, accompanied by a silky Hollandaise sauce or just melted butter. Perhaps paired with early potatoes, ham or salmon? Simply divine!

How can you tell if asparagus is fresh?

Look for closed tips and firm, glossy stalks that squeak when rubbed together. They should be free from dark spots or pressure marks.

Weißer Spargel frisch vom Feld — CC0 Christian Bierwagen

CC0 Fotodesign-Bierwagen Maschweg 331224 Peine Fon :1725104179, CHRISTIAN BIERWAGEN www.fotodesi

Grüner Spargel auf dem Feld — CC0 Christian Bierwagen

Where cuisine meets culture

Nienburg asparagus

In Niedersachsen, no asparagus journey is complete without a visit to Nienburg, the region’s unofficial asparagus-growing capital. With its Asparagus Fountain and dedicated Asparagus Museum, the queen of vegetables is duly revered there. 

Radfahrer fahren durch Nienburg — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Markus Tiemann

Bronzestatue einer Spargelerntetruppe in Nienburg, die stolz den Nienburger Spargel präsentiert. — CC-BY Mittelweser-Touristik GmbH

Located in a 400-year-old half-timbered house, the Asparagus Museum delves into its history and significance while showcasing unique tools and serving dishes. Around Nienburg, there’s plenty to explore, from asparagus-themed walks to river cruises on the Weser river.

How to store asparagus

Asparagus is best cooked fresh. If that’s not possible, store it unpeeled and untreated to retain its aroma. Wrapped in a damp tea towel, white asparagus will keep in the fridge for up to three days.

Spargel im Korb — CC0 TourismusMarketing Niedersachsen GmbH, Francesco Carovillano