| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 18g | 5g | 14g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 4g | 7g | 1.0g |
From the moment I stumbled upon the idea of Braised Radicchio with Bacon, I knew it would become a staple in my kitchen. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comforting and nourishing, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or as an impressive side for gatherings. Braising the radicchio mellows its natural bitterness, while the bacon adds a smoky richness that pairs wonderfully with the slight sweetness of balsamic vinegar and honey.
A Fusion of Flavors
Growing up in California with a rich Gujarati heritage, my culinary style has always been an eclectic mix of fresh, local ingredients and bold, traditional spices. While Braised Radicchio with Bacon isn’t explicitly tied to my roots, it holds a special place in my repertoire of vegetable-forward dishes. The robustness of the radicchio paired with the savory bacon and aromatic garlic reminds me of the multi-layered flavors I grew up enjoying.
The use of olive oil and fresh parsley also lends a touch of Mediterranean flair to this dish. It’s reminiscent of the simple yet flavorful vegetable preparations found in Southern European cuisine. This recipe is akin to dishes like collard greens with bacon or sautéed spinach with garlic, but with a unique twist that makes it stand out.
Health Benefits
What I particularly love about this recipe is how it marries indulgence with health benefits. Radicchio is packed with vitamins K and C, as well as fiber, which is fantastic for digestive health. The inclusion of garlic further boosts the dish’s nutritional profile, offering anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Although bacon is often seen as a guilty pleasure, using it sparingly in this dish allows you to enjoy its flavor without overindulging. Plus, swapping out regular bacon for turkey bacon can further reduce the overall fat content while still delivering that signature smoky taste.
The addition of chicken broth keeps the radicchio moist and flavorful, and the balsamic vinegar and honey provide a delightful balance of acid and sweetness. This makes the dish not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. For an extra burst of freshness, don’t forget to garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Perfect Pairings
Braised Radicchio with Bacon pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Try serving it alongside grilled fish or roasted chicken to create a meal that’s both hearty and healthful. It’s also a fantastic companion to a bowl of creamy polenta or a rich risotto, adding a sophisticated touch to even the simplest of meals.
In short, this dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that bring a touch of gourmet flair to any meal. It’s dishes like Braised Radicchio with Bacon that remind me why I fell in love with cooking in the first place—finding joy in every bite and sharing that joy with those I love.
What You’ll Need
- 3 heads radicchio, quartered
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Method
Step One
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step Two
Add the olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Add the sliced red onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step Three
Arrange the quartered radicchio in the skillet, cut side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges start to caramelize.
Step Four
Pour in the chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the radicchio to braise for 10-15 minutes, or until tender.
Step Five
Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step Six
Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the braised radicchio and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
