Caramelized Endives with Vinegar

An incredibly simple and unique side dish. Serve it alongside a nice piece of fish or a juicy steak.

Serves 4 as a side dish

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (125 mL) red wine vinegar (or 1/4 cup/60 mL if you prefer a sweeter dish)
• 4 medium endives, trimmed
• 1/3 cup (80 mL) granulated sugar

Directions

1. Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cut the endives in half lengthwise. Pour the vinegar into a shallow bowl, and dip the endives in the vinegar, turning to coat. Reserve the vinegar.
3. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the hot cooking surface. When the sugar begins to melt, place the endive halves cut side down on the hot surface, not letting them move for 3 minutes. Keep a close watch on the sugar so it doesn’t burn, lowering the heat if it starts to do so. (Always use caution when working with melted sugar.)
4. Once the endives are nicely caramelized on one side, turn them over and carefully pour the reserved vinegar around the endives—not over them or you’ll dissolve the caramelized sugar. Cook until they are tender and glazed, about 3 more minutes.
5. Remove from the pan and serve.