Ginger Shrimp - fresh asparagus

Method

• Rinse off asparagus, snap off tough ends, and cut diagonally into 1 1/2 inch lengths.
• Peel the water chestnuts, rinse under cool water and slice thinly.
• Halve the jalapenos. Remove the seeds and veins and very finely chop. You should have about 2 tablespoons.Place in a mound on a platter.
• Peel the ginger and very finely chop to equal about 3 tablespoons. Place on the platter with the jalapenos.
• Rinse the cilantro and coarsely chop the leaves.
• Trim the scallions and chop the entire length, including the green part. Place on the platter.
• These ingredients may be prepared in advance, covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated until needed.
• Halve the onion. Peel and very thinly slice.
• When ready to serve, heat a large wok or frying pan over a high flame.
• As it is heating, assemble all the ingredients within reach.
• Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot pan and swirl around.
• Quickly saute the sliced onions for 1 minute.
• When they appear to be half done, add the asparagus.
• Stir fry, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon, until the onions are tender and a light brown and the asparagus is bright green, about 1 minute.
• Transfer to a platter and set aside while cooking the remaining ingredients.
• Return the pan to high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
• Cook the ginger until it becomes golden and develops a rich aroma, about 30 seconds.
• Add the shrimp and quickly stir fry, tossing constantly with the spatula, until it becomes opaque and pink, about 1 1/2 minutes.
• Add salt and white pepper to taste.
• Quickly add the jalapenos, cilantro, scallions, and the sliced water chestnuts. Stir fry 30 seconds.
• Add the pine nuts and return the cooked onions and asparagus to the pan and quickly toss to combine.
• Drizzle with the sesame oil.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning, if needed.
• Transfer to a large platter and serve immediately, accompanied with fluffy white rice.