Braised Escarole with Apples - Series 7
Long cooking adds a whole new dimension to the delicate bitter flavor
that is the signature of escarole.
Its strong flavor takes on more depth and is further enhanced by the
sweetness of the apples. A great
side dish, as part of a hearty autumn feast, this dish is not only delicious,
but its strong taste aids
digestion and keeps our energy from stagnating.
What You'll Need
extra virgin olive oil
2-3 cloves fresh garlic, thinly sliced
1 red onion, thin half moon slices
sea salt
generous pinch crushed red pepper flakes
2 medium heads escarole, rinsed well, quartered lengthwise
dry white wine
2-3 sweet apples, diced (do not peel)
2 tablespoons brown rice syrup
juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
Place a small amount of oil, garlic and onion in a deep skillet and
turn heat to medium.
When the onions begin to sizzle, add a pinch of salt and red pepper
flakes and saute for
2-3 minutes. Spread the onions evenly over the bottom of the skillet
and lay escarole on top.
Sprinkle lightly with salt and add enough white wine to just cover the
bottom of the skillet.
Cover and cook until escarole begins to brown, 15-20 minutes.
While the escarole cooks, place apples in a saucepan with a pinch of
salt and rice syrup.
Turn heat to medium-low and cook, stirring constantly, until rice syrup
melts and coats
the apples, about 3 minutes. The apples will still be crisp. Remove
from heat and stir in
lemon juice. Transfer braised escarole to a serving platter and top
with cooked onions.
Spoon apples over top and serve. Makes 4-8 servings.