This recipe for caramelised broccoli highlights the vegetable's natural sweetness, enhanced with a touch of lemon and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper. This simple yet delicious side dish is perfect for any occasion, especially during the winter months in Australia when hearty and comforting dishes are in high demand.
Ingredients
- 45 ml extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 heads of broccoli (about 570 grams), stems peeled and heads halved lengthways
- 120 ml water
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced (3 tbs KIFG garlic granules)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper
- 30 ml fresh lemon juice
- Salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.
- Caramelise the Broccoli: In a large, deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil over moderate heat. Place the broccoli in the skillet, cut side down, cover, and cook until the bottoms are richly browned, about 8 minutes.
- Steam the Broccoli: Add the water to the skillet, cover again, and cook until the broccoli is just tender and the water has evaporated, approximately 7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then add the sliced garlic (or garlic granules) and crushed red pepper. Cook uncovered until the garlic turns golden brown, around 3 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle the broccoli with fresh lemon juice, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
This method ensures that the broccoli is tender and flavourful without becoming overly dark or dry. Enjoy this versatile and delicious side dish throughout the year, particularly as a comforting winter dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses!