Recipe-o'-clock: Classic Belgian endive boats
Belgian endive boats, a classic vegetarian dish from Belgium, are known for their crisp texture and slightly bitter taste. They have become a popular healthy appetizer or snack worldwide. Easy to prepare, these boats can be filled with a variety of ingredients to suit different tastes. This dish showcases the versatility of endive leaves. Let's start cooking these delightful boats.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this dish, you'll need four Belgian endives, one cup finely chopped walnuts, one-half cup dried cranberries, one-half cup crumbled blue cheese (optional for vegans), two tablespoons balsamic vinegar, and two tablespoons olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. These ingredients create a crunchy, flavorful filling that complements the crispness of the endive leaves perfectly.
Prepare the endive leaves
Begin by carefully separating the leaves from each Belgian endive head. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it ensures that your endive boats will be crisp and fresh. The leaves serve as the base for your filling, so make sure they are intact without any tears.
Mix the filling
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the finely chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, crumbled blue cheese (if you're including it), balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This mixture should have a slightly moist consistency from the dressing, which aids in keeping it together when nestled in the crisp endive leaves.
Assemble the boats
Spoon a generous amount of filling into each endive leaf. Arrange these filled boats on a serving platter in an inviting and aesthetically pleasing manner. The contrast between the crisp white-green hue of the endives and the vibrant colors of the filling makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing, offering a feast for the eyes.
Serve immediately
Belgian endive boats are ideally enjoyed when fresh, thus they should be promptly served after being assembled. These boats serve as an outstanding starter or side dish, offering a blend of nutrition and satisfaction without the heaviness often associated with more substantial meals. Their freshness contributes to the overall dining experience, making them a perfect choice for those seeking a light yet fulfilling option.
