Nobu's Fried Asparagus with Miso Dressing

INGREDIENTS

• Oil for deep-frying (grapeseed, peanut or even olive oil -- just enough for 2 inches depth in a pot wide enough to hold the asparagus)
• 3 inches (about 8 cm) white part of leek
• A little sugar syrup (optional)
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (90 ml) rice vinegar
• 3 ounces (90 g) white miso or red grain miso (akatsubu miso)
• 9 (or more) large spears green asparagus, about 9 oz. (270 g)
• A dab of garlic paste (or one small garlic clove, grated)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 cup (100 ml) grapeseed oil