Asparagus Scones

🌱🥐 Asparagus Scones 🌱🥐

What is it?
Asparagus scones are a delightful and savory twist on the traditional scone. They combine the light, crumbly texture of scones with the fresh, earthy flavor of asparagus. These scones are perfect for a spring or summer brunch, and they make a delicious addition to picnics or afternoon tea.

History:
The exact origin of asparagus scones is not well-documented, but scones, in general, have been a part of British and Irish cuisine for centuries. Asparagus, being a seasonal and versatile vegetable, was likely incorporated into scones as a way to add variety and a unique flavor to this classic baked good.

Components:
To make asparagus scones, you’ll need the following components:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh asparagus
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or scallions
• 1/2 cup buttermilk or milk
• 1 large egg

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Gently stir in the chopped asparagus, cheddar cheese, and chives.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk (or milk) and egg.

6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be crumbly but hold together.

7. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a 1-inch thick round.

8. Use a floured round cutter to cut out scones. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the scones are golden brown and cooked through.

10. Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare asparagus scones will be around 30-40 minutes, including preparation and baking time. These scones are best when served warm, so enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a dollop of butter or a side of cream cheese. 🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for asparagus scones:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per scone):

• Calories: 220-250
• Total Fat: 11-13 grams
• Saturated Fat: 7 grams
• Cholesterol: 45-50 mg
• Sodium: 360-400 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 1-2 grams
• Protein: 6-7 grams
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of the daily recommended intake
• Vitamin C: 4-6% of the daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
• Iron: 8-10% of the daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. Low in Sugar: Asparagus scones are relatively low in sugar, which can be a healthier choice for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.

2. Good Source of Protein: These scones provide a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle health and overall energy.

3. Rich in Calcium: The scones are a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

4. Moderate in Calories: With around 220-250 calories per scone, they can be a reasonable part of a balanced meal or snack.

5. Moderate in Fiber: While not exceptionally high in fiber, the scones do provide some dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

6. Moderate in Sodium: The sodium content is moderate. However, you can adjust the amount of salt used in the recipe if you have specific dietary considerations related to sodium.

Remember that the exact nutritional content may vary depending on the specific ingredients and proportions you use. Additionally, the healthiness of these scones can be influenced by factors such as portion size and overall dietary choices. Enjoy these scones in moderation as part of a balanced diet. 🌱🥐😊