BAKED BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOMS WITH CRISPY SHALLOTS

BAKED BROCCOLI AND MUSHROOMS WITH CRISPY SHALLOTS image

Yield 10-12 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

Canola oil, for frying
4 large shallots, very thinly sliced crosswise and separated into rings (2 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup rice flour
2 1/2 pounds broccoli, cut into small florets, stems peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch coins
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound cremini or button mushrooms, thinly sliced
Kosher salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 garlic clove, minced
3/4 pound sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (4 cups

Steps:

1.In a medium saucepan, heat 1/2 inch of canola oil until shimmering. In a bowl, toss the shallots with the rice flour. In four batches, fry the shallots, stirring gently, until golden, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the shallots to a paper towel-lined plate. 2.Preheat the oven to 375°. In a large pot of salted boiling water, blanch the broccoli until just crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain and pat dry. Transfer to a large ceramic baking dish. 3.In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in the oil and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, until the butter turns golden, 2 minutes. Add the mushrooms, season with salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat until browned, 8 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Scrape the mushrooms into the baking dish. Add the cheese and toss. Spread the vegetables in an even layer and scatter the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter on top. 4.Bake the casserole for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is just melted. Sprinkle the crispy shallots on top and bake for 15 minutes longer, until bubbling and the broccoli is hot. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Make Ahead The casserole can be prepared through Step 3 and refrigerated overnight. Bring to room temperature before proceeding. The crispy shallots can be stored at room temperature overnight.