Pancetta-Wrapped Radicchio
Although this may seem elaborate, the payoff is huge when the rollicking flavor of the raw onion pickle kicks up a poetic harmony against the muted bitterness of the cooked radicchio and the sweet triumph of Italian pork belly.
Makes4 servings
Cooking Methodpan-frying
CostInexpensive
Total Timeunder 2 hours
OccasionCasual Dinner Party
Recipe Courseappetizer
Mealdinner
Taste and Textureherby, meaty, savory
Type of Dishvegetable
Ingredients
- ½ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup cold water
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup salt, plus more to taste
- 1 large red onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
- 12 ounces pancetta, sliced paper-thin
- 4 heads radicchio, quartered
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine the red wine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add the onion and let stand for 1 hour.
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Unroll the slices of pancetta and wrap 2 pieces of pancetta around each radicchio quarter. Set aside.
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Heat a 10- to 12-inch nonstick sauté pan over medium heat for 1 minute. Gently place the radicchio in the pan and cook, turning frequently with tongs, until the pancetta is browned and crisp, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, cover with foil, and keep in a warm place.
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Drain any fat from the pan, and add the balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Bring to a boil and reduce by half. Remove from the heat.
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Drain the onions, discarding the liquid, and arrange one-quarter of the onions in a small pile in the center of each plate. Lean the warm radicchio pieces up against the onions like a teepee, and spoon about 1 teaspoon balsamic sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with rosemary and serve immediately.
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