The latest article from the German Culture site is a bit late because my laptop had a meltdown, nevertheless here it is at last and it brings with it a sign of spring:

ASPARAGUS RECIPES, SPECIALTIES FOR 'SPARGELZEIT'

Germans love 'Spargelzeit', the asparagus season. Many for the white asparagus, but that it is the much awaited beginning of spring is enjoyed by virtually all.

However sometimes the spring months are also accompanied by a feeling of tiredness, and in Germany a word has been created to cover it and is much used: 'FRUEHJAHRMUEDIGHEIT', which just means 'spring tiredness'.

But there will be no chance of 'Fruehjahrsmuedigheit' with these two delicious German recipes for Spargelzeit, Germany's White Asparagus Season.

ASPARAGUS WITH ORANGE AND LIME HOLLANDAISE SAUCE, AND SCHWABIAN ASPARAGUS SOUP WITH PANCAKE

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art176105.asp


While WHITE ASPARAGUS SEASON IN GERMANY

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art47081.asp

is all about the 'Royal Vegetable'. The prized white stalks which are harvested and savored from around the middle of April until June 24th, the feast day of St. John the Baptist.



germanculture.bellaonline.com has more articles on life, living and traditions in Germany, and a forum:

http://forums.bellaonline.com/ubbthreads.php?ubb=postlist&Board=247

Hope to hear from you, either in the forum or via email message, with any comments, questions or ideas for topics you would like covering.



Francine McKenna,
German Culture Editor

http://germanculture.bellaonline.com