French Asparagus Timbale

If you love French cuisine and trying something new, this Asparagus Timbale is an easy, elegant, and delicious vegetable-based recipe you’ll love. It’s a simple asparagus recipe with 4 ingredients, that’s light and flavorful!

An Asparagus Timbale is an elegant dish that combines the freshness of asparagus with the sophistication of a timbale. It’s a recipe perfect for a fancy dinner, a springtime brunch, or a serving for afternoon tea or any teatime gathering.

This is an exceedingly easy asparagus recipe. We’ll guide you through making this dish at home, from step-by-step instructions to tips for the best results and nutritional information.

What is a Timbale?

In culinary terms, a timbale is a dish cooked in a specific type of mold. The mold, called a timbale, gives the dish its characteristic shape.

The word ‘timbale’ comes from the French word for kettledrum, also known as timballo. This is due to the shape of the mold, which resembles a small drum in which the asparagus timbale is cooked.

Timbale dishes can be made with a variety of ingredients, but today, we’re making ours with asparagus. This vegetable brings a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish.

The Origins and Benefits of Asparagus Timbale

Asparagus timbale has roots in French cuisine. Like all of my favorite French-inspired dishes, it combines elegance with simplicity.

Asparagus is the star of this dish. This vegetable is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

It’s rich in fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, E, and K. Asparagus also provides a good amount of chromium, a trace mineral that enhances insulin’s ability to transport glucose.

Incorporating asparagus into your diet can support your overall health. Plus, it adds a touch of sophistication to your meals.

How to Choose and Prepare Asparagus

Choosing the right asparagus is key to a successful timbale. Look for firm, bright green stalks with tight asparagus tips.

Once you’ve selected your asparagus, it’s time to prepare it. Start by washing the stalks under cold water.

Next, trim the woody ends. Here’s a quick guide:

• Hold the asparagus stalk at both ends.
• Bend it until it snaps.
• The stalk will naturally break where the woody part ends and the fresh, juicy asparagus begins.

Remember, fresh asparagus will give your timbale a vibrant color and a crisp, tender texture.

Kitchen Tools

Here is a list of the equipment I use when making timbales.

• Steamer basket (if steaming or a pot for blanching the asparagus).
• Blender or food processor to puree the asparagus.
• Ramekins: I’m using 8-ounce ramekins, but you can use whatever size you have.

Step-by-Step Asparagus Timbale Instructions

Now that your asparagus is ready let’s start with the recipe. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and butter four 1-cup ramekins. You could also use cooking spray.

Next, steam the asparagus until fork tender. This should take about 3-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of your asparagus. Or, you could also blanch your asparagus in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Then, quickly transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Once cooled, puree the asparagus in a blender or food processor. Whisk together the eggs, cream, salt, nutmeg, and parmesan cheese until smooth, and fold in the asparagus puree.

Pour the mixture into a greased timbale mold. Place the mold in a water bath and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

The timbale is done when it’s firm to a light touch or when a small knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before unmolding.

Asparagus timbale is a versatile dish. It can be served as a main course or as a side dish. Presentation is key, so consider garnishing with fresh herbs, microgreens, or even a drizzle of sauce.