Braised Broccoli with Red Wine and Pecorino Cheese
Category: Side Dishes
Serves: 4
Discover the heartwarming taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine with this savory recipe for Braised Broccoli with Red Wine and Pecorino Cheese. This dish brings together the robust flavors of tender broccoli, caramelized onions, and the tangy kick of Pecorino cheese, all delicately infused with aromatic garlic and a splash of red wine. Perfect as a side dish to complement your main course, this recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers a burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Broccoli | 1 kg |
| Onions | 50 g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 60 g |
| Anchovies in oil | 20 g |
| Parsley | To taste |
| Pecorino cheese | 150 g |
| Red wine | 100 g |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fats | 15 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 430 mg |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by peeling and finely chopping the onion. For the broccoli, remove the leaves and separate the florets from the central stem. Slice the larger florets in half to ensure even cooking.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
In a wide, non-stick pan with a heavy bottom, heat 30 g of olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic clove and sauté until golden brown, releasing its aromatic oils into the pan. Remove the garlic and discard it.
3. Cook the Onions
Reduce the heat to low, add the chopped onions, and gently sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent. Be patient; this step is crucial for building flavor.
4. Add the Broccoli
Place the prepared broccoli florets into the pan with the onions. Season generously with fine salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. Incorporate the Pecorino Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Pecorino cheese over the broccoli, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a creamy texture to the dish.
6. Braise the Broccoli
Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Allow the broccoli to braise gently for 25 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
7. Add the Red Wine
After 25 minutes, remove the lid and pour in the red wine. Increase the heat slightly and let the alcohol evaporate while the wine’s rich aroma infuses the dish.
8. Final Touches
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the broccoli and toss gently to coat. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a pinch more salt or pepper to taste. For an extra layer of flavor, garnish with chopped parsley and finely chopped anchovies if desired.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the braised broccoli to a serving dish, and serve warm as a flavorful side to roasted meats, grilled fish, or hearty pasta dishes. Enjoy the marriage of earthy, cheesy, and tangy notes that make this dish truly unforgettable.
Chef’s Tips
- For added depth, use aged Pecorino Romano for its intense nutty flavor.
- Feel free to substitute the red wine with white wine for a lighter flavor profile.
- Pair this side dish with a robust red wine, such as Nero d’Avola, to complement its Sicilian roots.
Now, savor this recipe brought to you by Love With Recipes, where every dish tells a story of love and passion for cooking!
