To prepare asparagus for cooking, hold a piece of asparagus in the middle. Grab the cut end and bend it downward until the cut end 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, and then add the asparagus. Reduce heat to low and simmer until the asparagus is tender-crisp, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish and serve immediately.
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