You can have your fractals and eat them too...
At first glance, romanesco broccoli looks like it comes from a different planet. If you want to serve something visually stunning, you can't get much better than romanesco broccoli. It looks like a new age hybrid of broccoli and cauliflower. But, the truth is that this is a species unto itself, and has a long culinary history in Italy. A lovely example of fractal forms occuring in nature. The flavor of romanesco broccoli is milder than a cauliflower, with a lovely chartreuse color.
How did we eat 'em? I imagine the possibilities are endless, think of what you may do with broccoli or cauliflower. But, I was in a pinch to make dinner, so steamed the florets in the microwave for 4 minutes, spritzed with lemon and a little salt and pepper. This paired wonderfully with chicken breast and brown basmati rice. I added some creamy lemon/dill sauce (think hollandaise with dill). It reminded me of an updated version of my mom's broccoli divan. Comfort food with a kick!
