Asparagus Chinese Style
["1 1/2 lb. fresh asparagus spears", "2 Tbsp. vegetable oil", "1 clove garlic, minced", "1/4 tsp. salt", "3/4 c. chicken broth", "1 Tbsp. cornstarch", "1 Tbsp. cold water", "2 Tbsp. soy sauce", "1/4 tsp. black pepper"]
["Snap off the tough stems of asparagus spears.", "Cut the stalks into 1/2-inch slices.", "Heat oil in a 12-inch skillet, add garlic, salt, and asparagus.", "Saute over moderate heat for 2 minutes.", "Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.", "Mix cornstarch, water, and soy sauce.", "Add to asparagus, stir and bring to a boil again.", "Stir for 1 minute, add pepper and serve at once.", "Serves 4."]
["fresh asparagus spears", "vegetable oil", "clove garlic", "salt", "chicken broth", "cornstarch", "cold water", "soy sauce", "black pepper"]