Braised Endive, Escarole, or Radicchio with Prosciutto

Braised vegetables offer a delightful and comforting dish that brings out their natural flavors while adding a touch of tenderness. In this recipe, we explore the versatility of Belgian endive, escarole, or radicchio, each providing its unique taste and texture when braised to perfection. The addition of savory prosciutto complements the bitterness of the vegetables, resulting in a balanced and delightful dish. Whether you choose to braise the vegetables whole or chop them up, the result will be equally satisfying. So, let’s get started and enjoy this heartwarming dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

Makes: 4 servings

Time: About 1 hour

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 Belgian endives, trimmed, damaged leaves removed, or about 1 pound escarole or radicchio, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped prosciutto or other dry-cured ham
• 1/2 cup chicken, beef, or vegetable stock (or water)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or white wine vinegar

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a medium to large nonstick skillet with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the endives, escarole, or radicchio, depending on your choice. Cook the vegetables, turning them once or twice, until they begin to brown.
2. Add the chopped prosciutto, stock, and some salt and pepper to the skillet.
3. Cover the skillet and cook over the lowest possible heat, turning the vegetables occasionally, until they become very tender, typically taking about 45 minutes.
4. Uncover the skillet and turn up the heat slightly to evaporate any remaining liquid.
5. Drizzle the braised vegetables with lemon juice or white wine vinegar just before serving.

VARIATION:

Braised Endive with Orange Juice:

For a delightful twist, try this variation with a citrusy flavor.

• Substitute butter for the olive oil if preferred, and use orange juice instead of stock.
• Omit the prosciutto and add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the skillet along with the orange juice.
• Proceed with the recipe, braising the vegetables with the orange juice and brown sugar. Omit the lemon juice or vinegar.

TIPS:

• Vegetable selection: Choose fresh and firm vegetables for the best results. Belgian endive, escarole, and radicchio should be free from any signs of wilting or damage.
• Prosciutto choice: Opt for high-quality prosciutto or other dry-cured ham to add a delicious savory flavor to the dish. You can also use pancetta or bacon as alternatives.
• Browning the vegetables: When sautéing the vegetables in olive oil, make sure to turn them occasionally to achieve even browning. This will enhance their flavor and appearance.
• Low and slow braising: The key to tender and flavorful braised vegetables is to cook them over low heat for an extended period. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become very tender.
• Stock selection: Use chicken, beef, or vegetable stock according to your preference or dietary requirements. Homemade stock will provide the best flavor, but store-bought stock works well too.
• Adjusting seasoning: Taste the dish after braising and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. The prosciutto adds saltiness, so take that into account when seasoning.
• Citrusy variation: If you’re trying the Braised Endive with Orange Juice variation, be mindful of the brown sugar and orange juice ratio to achieve the desired sweetness.
• Serving suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It also works as a flavorful side dish for any meal.
• Garnish: Before serving, consider garnishing the dish with some freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to add a burst of freshness.
• Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to develop even further when reheated, making it a delicious next-day meal.

Whether you opt for the traditional recipe or the orange-infused variation, these Braised Endive, Escarole, or Radicchio with Prosciutto dishes promise to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. Enjoy this delectable and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion.