Ben Dearnley
Broccoli and anchovies are a classic Italian combination. In this case we’ve mixed deeply caramelised broccoli with finely shaved raw broccoli for contrast – not traditional perhaps, but tasty nonetheless. We’ve opted to make our own ricotta – and love to use it still warm – but you could use a firm bought version instead.
Ingredients
Homemade ricotta
Method
Main
1.For homemade ricotta, bring milk, buttermilk, cream, lemon juice and 1 tsp sea salt to a simmer in a large saucepan over medium heat and cook until curds start to separate (10-12 minutes). Remove from heat and stand until curds rise to the surface (about 15 minutes), then ladle into a muslin-lined sieve and set aside to drain. Refrigerate until required; this is best eaten on day of making.
2.Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add two-thirds of the broccoli and fry, stirring occasionally, until caramelised and very tender (10-15 minutes). Stir in anchovies, garlic, lemon rind and chilli flakes, cook until fragrant (1 minute), then set aside.
3.Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water until al dente (10-12 minutes), then drain and return pasta along with 1-2 tbsp pasta water to the pan. Add broccoli mixture, lemon juice to taste and remaining broccoli, toss to combine, season to taste and serve topped with dollops of homemade ricotta.
Note Jersey milk is available from select delicatessens; if it’s unavailable, substitute milk from a good organic producer.
Drink Suggestion: Full-bodied fiano. Drink suggestion by Max Allen
Notes
