Forget all those complicated directions for using asparagus steamers and for tying asparagus into bundles. The best way is also the easiest. Here’s how.
Meanwhile, trim off the woody bottoms of the asparagus stalks with one swipe of a chef’s knife. With a vegetable peeler, carefully peel a thin layer from the bottom halves of the stalks. Be careful not to take off too much.
Salt the boiling water, then drop in the asparagus. (If they vary in size, add t