Asparagus Gratinée

• 1 kg/2½ lb asparagus
• 150 g/5

Wash the asparagus thoroughly, trim the stems removing the tough part. Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil. If you have a steamer, steam the asparagus. If not, boil the asparagus for 15 minutes; it is done when it is easily pierced with a fork. Drain on linen cloths.

Butter 4 gratin dishes, put in the asparagus, tips all facing one way. Season with salt.

Sprinkle the P