ASPARAGUS STIR FRY/PORIYAL

I made this poriyal for my mother in law since she was very interested in this new vegetable (its funny shape too  ) she saw for the first time. I have made this poriyal a couple times before and this is the only way I can eat asparagus rather than the traditional way it is served. She seemed to like it and her comment was that this poriyal tasted just like the one with green beans. I followed her poriyal recipe this time and it was really good. We added some coconut at the end for some extra taste; this can be omitted if needed. It tastes good without coconut too.

INGREDIENTS:
1. Asparagus, 1 bundle.
2. Onion, medium size, 1.
4. Mustard seeds, ¼ teaspoon.
5. Urad dhal, ½ teaspoon.
6. Ginger-garlic paste, ½ teaspoon, (optional).
7. Salt as per taste.
8. Curry leaves and cilantro for garnishing.
9. Chili powder, ½ teaspoon.
10. Coriander powder, 1 teaspoon.
11. Cilantro for garnishing.
12. Grated coconut or coconut powder, 1 tablespoon.

PREPARATION:
Break the asparagus stalks from the woody parts (this can be done by bending the asparagus and it would break over the fleshy section, this woody portion of the stalk can be used in stocks and soups). Chop the fleshy parts of the stalks into small pieces. Dice the onion. Heat a pan with a teaspoon of oil. When the oil is hot enough, add the mustard seeds and let it splutter. Then add the urad dhal and fry for a few seconds until it turns brown. Add the diced onions and curry leaves and sauté for a few minutes until they are tender. Then add ginger-garlic paste, chili powder, coriander powder, and the cut asparagus stalks and sauté for a minute. Then 2-3 tablespoons of water along with salt and cook closed under low flame for 4-5 minutes until everything is cooked and turns dry. Add the grated coconut and mx everything well. Garnish with cilantro and serve as a side dish with rice.