Anirushkas

Green Island

Roasted Romanesco broccoli with a spiced spinach dip

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Florets:

  • 1 Romanesco broccoli
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp basil
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp black pepper (coarse grind)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Spinach Dip:

  • 75g spinach
  • 3/4 tbsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tbsp tomato concentrate
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 green chili (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tbsp Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
  • 1/4 tsp asafoetida
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp mustard oil (or olive oil)
  • Salt to taste

Garnishing:

  • 1/4 onion, sliced
  • 6 cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Romanesco Broccoli

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (with heating from both top and bottom).
  2. Wash and chop the Romanesco broccoli into small florets.
  3. In a bowl, toss the florets with olive oil, all the spices, and salt, ensuring even coating.
  4. Spread the florets on a baking tray and roast for 20 minutes, or until the tips are slightly browned and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Spinach Dip

  1. Heat mustard (or olive) oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Throw the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  3. Stir in onions and green chili; sauté until onions turn golden.
  4. Add minced garlic, turmeric, and salt. Sauté for 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in paprika and tomato concentrate, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
  6. Toss in the spinach leaves and cook until wilted. If needed, add 1-2 tbsp of water to prevent drying out.
  7. In a separate pan, heat chili flakes and asafoetida until golden, then add them to the spinach mixture.
  8. Sprinkle garam masala and sauté for 1 minute. Adjust salt to taste.
  9. Blend into a smooth puree and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Garnish

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and cherry tomatoes, cooking until the onions are translucent and the tomatoes are soft but still holding their shape.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Arrange the crispy Romanesco broccoli in a serving bowl.
  2. Top with the sautéed onions and tomatoes.
  3. Serve alongside the spinach dip for a delicious and flavorful dish.