No asparagus anywhere!

I get asparagus spears every week in my local greengrocers. No shortage here.

It's all from abroad. Most is South American at the moment.

What? Who mentioned Spar or Centra?

The season in Europe runs in May/June so is over.

There is a ban imports from the biggest major exporter in Peru into the EU due to traces of prohibited pesticide.

Since nearly all Asparagus imports in the US and EU come from Peru and Mexico and the later is out of season you will just have to find alternatives for your menu.

The EU is looking after us here and the producers will have to adjust their growing practices.

Can you name it Jim? Always on the lookout for a good spot for veg!

My local greengrocer has it but €4.99 for a bunch.

Peru, thanks to its high altitude and closeness to the equator simulates a Spring all year round so yes they can technically produce 12 months of the years.

Northern Europe is May, June. There is also a small second season around now but supply is so tight there is not enough to go around.

The problem with Peruvian that I was told was the banned pesticide from major growers there but your article mentions weather issues which could affect overall supply.

There are some Mexican imports showing up since last week to fill the gap. But pricey.

You can get it preserved in jars, but it's usually quite skinny compared to the fresh stuff you get in Germany or Holland. It needs peeling as well.

Fresh?? I've never seen it outside the European growing season, mid April to end of June approx. Where was it from?

Sounds overcooked. A short steaming is sufficient.

Nah, prefer the green. Better crunch!

Did you not peel it? :D

Hope you had it with hollandaise, otherwise it's not worth the effort!