To prepare asparagus for cooking, hold a piece of asparagus in the middle. With the other hand, grab the cut end and bend it down until it snaps off. The asparagus will break in the right spot to remove its woody end.
In a large saucepan, heat the water, sugar and soy sauce over high heat. Cook until boiling. Then add the asparagus.
Reduce heat to low and simmer until the asparagus is tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
Put in a serving dish and serve right away.
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