This is another recipe from the old-school Italian archives. Very quick, foolproof, and always delicious, the two secret ingredients make this broccoli lip-smacking good. This recipe cooks really really quickly, so pay attention to the heating instructions throughout the recipe to make sure you get that delicious, gorgeous crunch.
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Now, I myself happen to be a big fan of anchovies, but there are many members of my family who are not. Anchovies are one of those ingredients that when tasted on their own can be very strong and overpowering, but when mixed in with other ingredients, they magically blend in while leaving behind a powerhouse of flavour with none of the fishy essence. Think Caesar salad dressing which is on everyone's list of favorites. They lend the perfect yummy accent to the broccoli, and the little bit of browning and caramelizing adds the perfect crispy and smoky note. Give this a try, I promise even those anchovy or broccoli skeptics will be converted!
Ingredients
2 heads broccoli
6 good quality anchovy fillets
3 large cloves of garlic
2 tbsps olive oil
1/4 cup warm water
Salt and pepper to taste
pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a little heat)
Directions
Wash broccoli and cut into florets. Trim stems and cut longways into 3 or 4 pieces. I like to use everything! Roughly chop anchovies and slice garlic. Make sure to use high quality anchovies. I like to buy the ones packed in glass jars and olive oil. Use a wide and shallow frying pan. Add olive oil and heat on medium heat. You want the pan to be really hot so the broccoli can scorch a little. Add broccoli. Cook over high heat, until the broccoli caramelizes and browns a little on one side. Then stir until broccoli begins to change colour to a bright green. Add anchovies, garlic and water. Water should cause a lot of steam. Lower heat to medium, cover and let cook for 2 - 4 minutes until broccoli is tender.
Remove lid. Turn heat to high until all water evaporates. Allow broccoli to further caramelize and brown in places. Test with a fork until desired doneness, another 2-4 minutes. Do not overcook or broccoli will quickly turn to mush. Remove and serve immediately. Make sure to top with bits of garlic and anchovy left in the pan.
Enjoy!
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